Top Alternatives to Having a Spare Tire

Posted on May 9, 2022 by Zores

In today’s automotive manufacturing industry, spare tires are no longer a standard. Many newer model vehicles do not come with a spare tire, which can sometimes come as a surprise to new car owners. If you are a driver of a vehicle without a spare, it would be wise to consider having a flat tire plan. In the case of a roadside emergency. But this plan does not necessarily have to include an actual spare tire. There are many other options available that can deliver an equivalent level of security.

Continue reading to learn the top alternatives to having a spare tire, plus where you can get twenty-four hour roadside emergency assistance in Central Indiana.

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Why the Missing Spare Tire?

Why are newer model vehicles not being designed to come with a full spare tire? Auto manufacturers are looking to be space-efficient and taking out a full spare tire from a car trunk can greatly increase the interior square footage of the vehicle, plus make room for more innovative undercarriage and mechanical design.

Furthermore, automotive manufacturing companies are forgoing the full spare because it’s cost-effective. By eliminating the addition of a full spare tire, auto manufacturers can produce the car at a cheaper rate, and in turn sell the car at a more economical price to the public. Removing the spare tire also improves fuel efficiency because it reduces the overall weight of the vehicle.

Filling the Spare Tire Void

If you want to have a spare tire in your vehicle or a flat tire emergency plan in place, you have plenty of options to choose from. Not only can you purchase a full spare tire and keep it in your trunk, but you can choose from some other alternatives as well. The top choices that work as an effective substitute to a full spare tire include space-saver spares, run flat tires, tire sealant inflation kits, self-sealing tires, and roadside emergency carriers.

Space-Saver Spares

Space-saver spare tires are colloquially known as donuts because they are a miniature version of the full spare and therefore, resemble the morning breakfast pastry we know and love so well. Donuts spare tires are a perfect solution for someone who wants to have a spare on hand but lacks in space. You can purchase these at any local automotive shop or tire shop. These donuts are only intended as a short-term solution for a flat tire and should not be driven on for more than 50 miles.

Run Flat Tires

When putting a spare tire inside of your vehicle is not an option at all, regardless of its size, you might want to consider run flat tires. Run flat tires are a specialized tire safety system designed with reinforced side walls or internal support rings that will sustain a vehicle’s driving ability for short period of time in the case that the tires are damaged. When a tire is damaged or loses air pressure, you cannot exceed 50 miles an hour nor drive more than 50 miles on run flats.

Self-Sealing Tires

Another tire safety system that has been designed to mitigate the hassle of a sudden flat tire is self-sealing tires. Self-sealing tires do just that; they self-seal. They contain a specialized coating on the inside of the tire wall that will immediately gravitate toward a puncture or foreign object and cover it up.

Tire Inflation Kits

It is always encouraged to have a roadside emergency kit inside of your car. One such item to add to your roadside emergency vehicle kit is a tire inflation and sealant kit. These are wonderful alternatives to having a spare tire or costly specialized tires like the ones mentioned above. These tire inflation in ceiling kits can be purchased at any department store with an automotive section or at any automotive shop or online retailer. They are simply a kit equipped with all the materials needed to patch up a hole in a tire and get you back on the road for a short period of time.

Are you stuck on the road right now with a flat tire and no idea what to do? Just contact Zore’s Towing for 24 hour roadside assistance and towing services in Indianapolis and its surrounding locations. We can help with flat tires, locked keys in the car, overheating engines, fuel tank fill-ups, and much more!

Why Your New Car Does Not Have a Spare Tire

Posted on December 7, 2021 by Zores

It is a frustrating, yet all-too-familiar, roadside scenario that happens to new car owners more often these days than it did in the past. A driver gets a flat, pulls over to change it, but when they pop open the trunk, there is no spare tire in sight. ‘Perhaps it’s under the car?’, they ask themselves, but upon inspection, no such luck. So, they turn to the car’s owners’ manual for information on the location of their BMW or GM vehicle, only to discover in the end that their new car does not come with a factory spare tire.

If this has just happened to you, there is still a possibility that your car comes with a factory alternative to a spare tire. However, it is also possible that it comes with nothing, in which case you will need some emergency roadside assistance flat tire service.

Continue reading to learn why more and more auto manufacturers are doing away with spare tires, what they are incorporating into their designs instead. This can give you a better understanding of why your new ride doesn’t have a donut in the trunk.

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No More Spare Tires

Many automakers are making changes to the spare tire designs of their vehicles. In many cases, they are eliminating the spare tire altogether, replacing it with alternatives to an extra tire or donut. Why are they doing this? Space. Spare tires take up a lot of space in a vehicle, not just in the trunk, but in the overall design of the car. Automotive manufacturers have found that they can design a more space efficient vehicle by removing the spare tire and tire casing.

Weight Reduction Benefits

Losing the spare tire does more for a car other than giving it more storage or design space; it also males the car weigh less, which increases fuel efficiency and gas mileage, while also reducing energy consumption. The lighter the car, the less power it takes to operate it, namely gas and electricity. By taking the spare tire out of modern vehicle design, automakers have enhanced fuel efficiency and lightened the workload of the engine.

Common Spare Tire Alternatives

Many automakers have simply replaced the spare tire with a more space-efficient and weight-friendly alternative. For instance, BMW no longer puts spares in their designs because all of their modern models are equipped with run flat tires. Run-flats are designed with reinforced sidewalls that allow drivers to drive a reasonable distance further without placing additional pressure on the damaged tire or wheel. In addition to run-flat tires, some automakers, like GM, have opted for tire repair kits in their vehicles. Not only do these take up less space than an actual spare tire, but they can be used by people of all ages and strengths.

Flat Tire Solutions

If you are stuck on the side of the road with a damaged or flat tire, and your car does not have a spare or viable spare tire alternative, you can contact a local Indianapolis towing company for emergency roadside assistance. They change tires in a matter of minutes and can have you back on the road in no time at all.

Are you currently stuck on the side of the road with a flat tire in Central Indiana? Contact Zore’s Towing for 24 hour roadside assistance in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties. We specialize in Indianapolis flat tire repair, and serve all of Indy, including Avon, Lebanon, and Greenwood, Indiana.

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Top 4 Spare Tire Options for Cars and Trucks

Posted on October 20, 2021 by Zores

Continue below to learn the top 4 spare tire options on the market today, including how to choose the right spare tire for your vehicle.

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The Spare Tire Facts You Need to Know

The fact is, not all vehicles come factory equipped with spare tires these days. Even used cars are often missing their spare tire because they’ve already been used in the previous lifetime. So, with these two very common automotive variables at play, it is quite possible that your ride is without spare, which can pose several safety hazards and unsafe situations. It is in your best interest to equip your vehicle with a spare tire that is compatible with your make and model, as well as your budget and automotive handyman skills.

But before you hit the auto parts store for of spare, be sure to review your options and choose one that is the right fit for your car or truck. The top 4 spare tire options on the market today are full-size, compact, run-flat, and inflation and repair kits.

Full-Size Spare Tires

The first option on the market for a spare tire is a full-sized spare tire. This is basically just an exact match of the other tires currently on your vehicle. It is literally an extra tire to the ones you already own. So, it will look just like your other tires and be the same size and dimensions. Keep in mind, a full-size spare tire will be larger and take up more room in your vehicle, plus it will be heavier which can have an impact on your fuel consumption.

Full-size spare tires are recommended for trucks and medium to large vehicles, such as bands, box trucks, delivery trucks, and even larger SUVs. Full-size retires are also recommended for drivers who regularly commute in hazardous road conditions, such as jagged terrain, heavy snow, ice, and rain.

Compact Spare Tires (Donuts)

A compact spare tire is the most popular option on the market, often referred to as a donut. A compact spare tire is lighter in weight and smaller in size, making them a perfect fit in almost any make and model trunk bed. They are also easy to install and support better fuel economy because of their size and weight. Compact spare tires, however, are not meant to be driven on for very long. Because they are smaller than the other tires on a vehicle, they are only meant to get you from the point of tire disruption to an auto shop or your driveway.

Compact spare tires are recommended for vehicles that are smaller in size, as well as for drivers who frequently commute in populated suburban areas and city centers. You want to be close to an automotive repair shop when driving on a spare.

Run Flat Tires

Run flat tires are another option for spares on the market today. These tires are designed with reinforced sidewalls that will allow a vehicle to continue driving even when the tire is damaged or deflated. Just like compact spare tires, run flat tires are not meant to be driving on for very long.

Once a run flat is in use, it is important to drive directly to an automotive repair or tire shop for tire replacement. Run flat tires are recommended for very small and compact vehicles since there is no need to take up any trunk or backseat space. They are also recommended for young drivers or those who are not good at changing tires, since there is no need to get out of the vehicle and change a spare when tire damage occurs.

Tire Inflation and Repair Kits

Tire inflation and repair kits are another option on the market today for those who need a spare tire option in the vehicle. These kits are recommended for those who are handy with automotive work, and who are comfortable with using the products necessary to patch up tire holes and gashes long enough to get to an automotive repair shop or tire replacement store. These kits typically use foam or sealants to repair openings and damages to the outer tire wall, but there are also tire inflation kits that work inflate tires automatically upon damage.

Do you need immediate flat tire service right now? Contact Zore’s Towing for 24 hour flat tire repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We operate 24 hours a day and 7 days a week, offering a wide range of roadside services and tow truck assistance.

Do I Have to Have a Spare Tire in My Car?

Posted on June 21, 2021 by Zores

It is a common misconception that the only vehicles that do not come with a spare tire are used cars. And while most people assume that new cars automatically come with a spare tire, vast numbers of modern models do not, as they are no longer standard manufacturing equipment. Generally, only light-duty trucks and large SUV’s come with a spare tire these days. So, many people wind up buying a new car, only to find that it’s not equipped with the fitted spare tire. This leaves them asking, “do I have to have one?”

Continue reading to learn what you should know about spare tires, including whether or not they are required by law.

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Spare Tire Laws

It is up to you to choose whether or not you would like to have a spare tire in your car. There is no law or state requirement that mandates all drivers have a spare. However, it is strongly encouraged by all car care organizations and authorities to always have a spare tire in your vehicle for those just in case types of situations.

Where to Get a Spare for Your Vehicle

You can purchase a spare tire for your particular make and model vehicle at any local auto parts store or tire shop. You can choose to purchase a brand-new tire, which will deliver optimal performance and efficiency, full tread, and perhaps even come with a warranty. You can also choose to purchase a used tire, which are available in good enough condition to be used in an emergency flat tire situation.

Why are Spares Less Common Now?

There are many reasons why automotive manufacturers are not including spare tires as a standard piece of manufacturing equipment any longer. The 4 top reasons that new cars don’t come with a spare tire include initiatives to: 1) improve gas mileage and fuel efficiency, 2) give more room inside the vehicle interior, 3) increase storage space (namely trunk space), and 4) reduce manufacturing costs.

Run Flats and Self-Sealing Tires

Run flats and self-sealing tires are common alternatives to having a spare in your vehicle. Run flats are a tire system that allows a flat tire to travel a short distance without causing further damage to the wheel or rim. Generally, run flats will allow you to drive up to 50 miles or so under the speed of 45 miles an hour. Self-sealing tires are designed to automatically repair any punctures or holes to the tire caused by running over something sharp, like a nail, using a special sealant inflator kits are another common alternative to having a spare tire, but they are not always dependable.

Are you a Hoosier who is stuck with a flat tire right now? Contact Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for prompt and affordable roadside assistance service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and serve all of Central Indiana.

You Might Also Read:

How Long Can I Drive on a Spare Tire?
Common Types of Spare Tires
How to Patch a Flat Tire Using a Tire Plug Kit

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Why Do Some Vehicles Have Spare Tires and Others Don’t?

Posted on September 25, 2020 by Zores

If you are on the hunt for a new vehicle, and a spare tire is something important to you, be sure to pay attention to everything your potential new car comes with. That is because many car manufacturers are not putting spare tires in newer model vehicles anymore. If you find this interesting, wait until you learn why some producers have chosen this practice.

Continue reading to learn the top 4 reasons why some new cars do not come with a spare tire option.

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1. Improved Fuel Efficiency

With the trending green movement becoming so popular that it is almost ingrained in most consumers shopping tendencies, it is no surprise that many car manufacturers are attempting to improve their vehicles fuel efficiency. One effort to accomplish this has been to eliminate the extra weight of a spare tire. This may seem like a trivial amount, but the absence of a spare tire can reduce a vehicle’s overall weight by 30 to 50 pounds. That is because you must also consider the additional weight of the jack and wrench. The benefits from this type of elimination also helps car manufacturers meet the strict EPA guidelines.

2. Increased Storage Space

Although it may not seem like a simple donut or spare can take up a lot of room, in smaller vehicles, its absence can make a huge difference. Vehicles like sports cars, compact cars, eco-conscious cars, electric cars, and even smaller-sized sedans, can all benefit from the lack of a spare. The added space allows for a more comfortable ride.

3. Batteries and Emissions Equipment

In contrast to adding more storage, eliminating a spare tire is a must for many car manufacturers because there is too much space occupied by other equipment. This includes hybrids, electric cars, and diesels. The batteries and emissions equipment of these vehicles takes up the space that would typically house a spare.

4. Decreased Manufacturing Costs

The elimination of a spare tire naturally saves car manufacturers money, hundreds of thousands, in fact. However, many car manufacturers use that savings to improve other performance, aesthetic, and mechanical features. So sometimes, it is a “give and take” situation.

If Your Car Does Not Come With a Spare

If you are the driver of a vehicle that lacks a spare, whether because it was manufactured that way to you just don’t have one, there are still options for you on the road. You can always purchase a properly-sized spare or donut for your vehicle, along with the proper tools (i.e. jack, torque wrench, road triangles, etc.).

Helpful Flat Tire Advice

If you ever find yourself with a flat on the side of the road without one, you can contact a 24 hour emergency roadside assistance service. Some insurance policies actually cover roadside assistance needs, or have their own roadside assistance service. Simply dial the number and wait for help to arrive. Most emergency roadside assistance services operate on a 24 hour basis, 7 days a week and 365 days a year. That is why they are called “emergency” roadside assistance services.

Who to Trust for 24 Hour Towing and Roadside Assistance in Indiana

If your vehicle breaks down at any point during your trip, call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for Indianapolis roadside assistance and towing recovery services you can trust. Our friendly Indiana tow truck operators are certified roadside emergency assistants, and are always waiting by the phones, ready to help you get back on the road, safe and sound. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year, so you can always count on us. Request a free estimate, today.

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FAQS About Spare Tires

Posted on June 9, 2020 by Zores

Spare tires are somewhat of a mystery to drivers. Although they seem pretty straightforward, there is much to know about them. Whether your vehicle comes equipped with one or not, as a licensed driver, it is your duty to know more about using a spare tire. Continue reading to review some common frequently asked questions about spare tires, and what to do if you are ever stuck on the road without one.

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How Do I Drive on a Spare Tire?

Not sure if you are ready to drive with a spare tire on? You are! Just follow these important tips, and you will do just fine:

➛ Plan to drive a short distance, or to the nearest tire shop.
➛ Refer to owners’ manual for instructions.
➛ Always maintain cold tire inflation pressure of 60psi.
➛ Check tire pressure regularly and before each use.
➛ Inspect the tire and tire sidewalls for punctures, nicks, and other damages before each use.
➛ Drive and maneuver carefully.
➛ Never exceed 50 MPH.
➛ Avoid highways, but if you have to, drive in the right lane with hazard lights on.
➛ Keep at least 3 car lengths driving distance between other vehicles.
➛ Store spare tires in the trunk or cabin, or on the outside of the vehicle (SUV’s).
➛ Be sure to learn how to change a flat tire!
➛ Call a local roadside assistance company if you have trouble changing a tire.

How Do I Change a Tire With a Spare?

See our blog, “How to Change a Tire Using a Spare” for a full, step-by-step guide on how to change a tire, including what you should do as soon as you get a flat, and important safety tips.

How Long Can I Safely Drive on a Spare Tire?

Never leave your spare tire on longer than the owners’ manual or manufacturer’s instructions state. This can lead to a whole heap of complications. Spares and donuts are meant to be temporary tires, because in fact, they are temporary tires! They are not as durable as ordinary tires, and weaken at a much faster rate. You see, a standard tire contains layers of steel and polyester fibers beneath the rubber. These layers are called plies and are where the real strength comes from. For space and weight-saving reasons, spares do not contain as many plies as ordinary tires; therefore, they deteriorate quicker.

Why Does My Car Not Come With a Spare Tire?

Modern vehicles are commonly designed and manufactured without spares. This is for a number of reasons, all of which vary among car makers, but mostly to enhance fuel efficiency, create more storage space, create more space for batteries and emissions equipment (in the case of hybrids, etc.), and to decrease manufacturer costs. If your car does not have a spare, it is strongly recommended to buy one.

Are There Different Types of Spare Tires?

There are many types of spare tires, including full-size, compact, and run flats. All full size spares are either matching or non-matching forms. A matching full size spare is one that is identical to the other tires on a vehicle. And a non-matching spare is not identical. Also known as “donuts”, compact spare tires are the most frequently used spare for small to mid-sized vehicles. This is because they deliver the best balance in terms of function and size. Some vehicles are manufactured with a sort-of “built-in” spare tire system, known as run flat tires. Run flats contain reinforced tire walls that allow a vehicle to continue driving without using any tire pressure.

Are There Any Alternatives to Using a Spare Tire?

There are three common alternatives to having a spare on hand. These are run flats, as mentioned above, as well as, self-sealing tires and tire inflator kits. Tire inflator kits usually involve a type of aerosol seal kit that provides a temporary resolution for minor tire tread punctures. There are several brands of tire inflator kits on the market, all ranging in price between $20 and $200 depending on quality. You can also purchase self-sealing tires, which are designed with a built-in lining, coated in a special sealant that automatically begins to surround the hole.

Flat Tire Roadside Assistance in Indianapolis and Central Indiana

Call Zore’s Inc. at 317-247-8484 for friendly 24 hour roadside assistance and towing in Indiana. We open a family-owned and operated business for 90 years, so you can trust us for prompt and professional service. We are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days a year, so our certified tow truck operators can be there for you anytime, any day! Request free estimates, anytime.

Tips for Driving on a Spare Tire

Posted on October 3, 2017 by Zores

Most vehicles manufactured today come with a compact spare tire, but not all, so it is wise to invest in one if your vehicle is without. Flat tires never happen when you expect it, so a spare can truly come in handy when you need to get back on the road fast. Not all spare tires are the same, but they all perform the same duty: to get your vehicle to a mechanic or tire shop as safely and effectually as possible. There are a few rules to driving on a compact spare that every car owner should know in case the situation ever arises. Understanding and following these proper guidelines protects you, your passengers, and other drivers on the road. Continue reading to learn some helpful tips for driving on a compact spare tire and more.

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Spare Tires

Spare tires are specially-designed to be smaller and more compact in order to conserve space and weight inside vehicles. Because they are smaller in size, and have narrower tread and reduced tread depth, they are not meant for long-term use. In fact, most owner’s manuals will limit driving on a spare to under 50 miles; but more accurately, a spare should never be driven on longer than it takes to get to a tire store or service station. They are intended to be temporary means of regaining mobility of your vehicle in order to seek out tire replacement services. Not only is extended driving on spares unsafe, it is damaging to a vehicle’s driveline and more.

Here are some important tips for driving with a spare tire on:

• Refer to owners’ manual for manufacturer instructions
• Always maintain cold tire inflation pressure of 60psi
• Check tire pressure regularly and before each use
• Inspect the tire and tire sidewalls for punctures, nicks, and other damages before each use
• Never exceed 50 MPH – Avoid highways, but if you have to, drive in the right lane with hazard lights on
• Keep at least 3 car lengths driving distance between other vehicles
• It’s best to store spare tires in the vehicle’s trunk or cabin – or on the outside of the vehicle (SUV’s)
• Drive and maneuver carefully
• Be sure to learn how to change a flat tire!
• Call a local roadside assistance company if you have trouble with your spare tire

A local well-established roadside assistance company offers a wide range of services. Aside from flat tire changes, they generally offer towing, jump starts, lockouts, and more. Be sure to call a trusted roadside assistance company with extensive experience and good customer reviews. This will ensure you get the best service at the fairest price.

Indianapolis Roadside Assistance

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Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for prompt and professional roadside assistance services in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties. Since 1927, Zore’s Towing has been family owned and operated company passionate about safe wrecker and recovery service.

Common Types of Spare Tires

Posted on August 15, 2016 by Zores

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Whether they hide in the dark corners of car trunks, or exist as an exterior accessory to SUVs, spare tires are vital components to vehicle safety and convenience. It is important to check your vehicle’s spare tire as often as you can to ensure it is inflated and ready for use if needed. Some cars come with a spare tire, while many newer models do not. You can purchase a spare tire at any local automotive parts store, tire store, or any store with a large automotive department.

Decades ago, most spares used were full-sized standard tires; but today, there are more options to choose from depending on your vehicle type, driving habits, and personal preferences. Continue reading to learn about the most common types of spare tires in the automotive market, and how to determine which one is right for your vehicle.

Full Size Spare Tires

Several years ago, most new cars were equipped with full size spares. Full size spare tires are the same size as standard tires, so they can be used for an extended period of time. This is helpful for drivers that cannot take their vehicle to a shop right away or for those who drive a truck or SUV. They come matching and non-matching forms. A matching full size spare is one that is identical to the other tires on a vehicle. And a non-matching spare is not identical. Unless driving a large truck or SUV, non-matching spares are more common and preferred nowadays since they are lighter in weight and have shallower tread. This makes the spare easier to store and install, thus improving on fuel economy.

Compact Spare Tires

Also known as “donuts”, compact spare tires are the most frequently used spare for small to mid-sized vehicles. This is because they deliver the best balance in terms of function and size. They are also more-cost effective compared to full size spares. Although they are highly-effective and convenient, compact spares are not meant to be driven on for long distances or extended periods of time. They provide a temporary means to get your vehicle back on the road so you can drive directly to a tire shop.

Run Flat Tires

Some vehicles are manufactured with a sort-of “built-in” spare tire system. These are called run flat tires and are only found on certain make and model vehicles. Run flats contain reinforced tire walls that allow a vehicle to continue driving without using any tire pressure. They are monitored by a vehicle’s tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), which alerts drivers when the run flats have been punctured and are “in mode.” So vehicles that are equipped with run flats do not come with a spare tire at all.

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Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 if you have a flat tire in Indianapolis, Indiana and need a quick tow. Our tow truck operators are certified, trained, and professional, offering a wide range of friendly and affordable towing and recovery services for all make and model vehicles, as well as, planes, duplexes, boats, semi-trucks, and more! Call us at 317-247-8484 for prompt 24 roadside assistance for flat tires in Indianapolis, IN any time!

How to Change a Tire Using a Spare

Posted on May 20, 2016 by Zores

A flat tire is a minor misfortune that almost every driver will experience at least once in their life. Especially for new drivers, knowing how to respond to a flat tire is an important part of responsible driving. Not only can it protect you from danger, it can provide you the confidence of managing your own unexpected car problems when the situation calls for it. If you are unfamiliar with the process of changing a tire and using a spare, continue reading to learn how with our simple guide.

Spare Tires

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A spare tire is generally customary in all modern vehicles. It is possible for used cars to be sold without their spare, so always be sure to check your vehicle before hitting the road. You always want to have a spare tire on-board in case of an emergency. You can purchase spare tires at a reasonable price in any auto parts store or tire store. Be sure to ask an associate for help with matching the right spare for your vehicle’s make and model.

Often times, spares are found in the trunk, underneath the surface. Other times, they are in the den of the trunk or in a compartment on the side. Refer to your owners’ manual for instructions on locating your cars spare tire. Along with the spare, there is usually a car jack as well. If your car is not equipped with a car jack, be sure to purchase one, as well as a tire iron, for your vehicle and keep it in there at all times.

What to Do

If you get a flat or blow a tire while driving, it is important to not panic. Simply flip on your hazard lights and direct the vehicle slowly and calmly to the right side of the road. Be sure you are far enough on the shoulder to be safe from oncoming traffic.

Once you are parked, turn off your ignition and keep your keys on your person. Always check your mirrors for oncoming traffic before exiting your vehicle. If you are on the freeway, it is strongly recommended to exit your vehicle from the passenger side if it’s
possible to climb over.

Next, locate your spare and your car jack. Place these items next to the flat tire so they are in arm’s reach when needed.

You will first need to lift your car off the ground to have the ability to remove the flat and replace it with a spare. Refer to your owners’ manual for instructions on using a car jack. They are fairly easy to use so do not get overwhelmed with the process. Simply find a solid area to place the jack underneath, and then use the lever to crank it up.

Continue cranking until the tire is lifted 1 to 2 inches off the ground. This will give you just enough space to freely remove the tire. Do not lift the car too high, this can cause accidents and damage to your vehicle.

Now that your car is jacked up, you can use the tire iron, or your hands, to unscrew the bolts on your wheel cap. There are usually four to five of them. They may be stuck or difficult to release if your car is old, so if the tire iron doesn’t work, your best bet is a roadside assistance service. They have the proper tools and muscle-power to remove your tire bolts and attach your spare in no time at all.

When you have the bolts removed, put them in a safe place nearby, and gently pull your flat tire off. Put it to the side as well. Be careful pulling your tire off so you do not tip your vehicle over while it’s on the jack.

Slide your spare tire on, and then replace all the bolts. Be sure they are fastened securely.

You are now ready to release the jack and lower your car back to the ground. Place the old tire and the jack back into your trunk. And carefully get back into the driver’s seat and pull out onto the road.

Be sure to drive immediately to a tire supply retailer for professional tire service and replacement. A spare is only a temporary means and should be driven on as little as possible.

Indianapolis Roadside Assistance

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Call Zore’s Towing at 317-247-8484 for prompt and professional roadside assistance services in Indianapolis and throughout Central Indiana. We provide friendly and affordable flat tire service, lost or locked key service, jump starts, dead battery service, and much more. Trust us for fast help at a reasonable price. So the next time you need help in a flash, call 317-247-8484 for Indianapolis roadside assistance you can trust.