We see them on the highway as we drive by, the car stopped on the side of the road, and it’s owner looking at a flat tire as if willing it will somehow inflate the rubber and get the person back on the asphalt again. However, we rarely assume we could be that person stranded until it happens and our car tire pressure signal light comes up, predicting an imminent problem very soon in our travel. While we can’t always guarantee our vehicles will work correctly, we can anticipate trouble and prepare for it. And having the right tools is critical.
Here’s the must-have list for any tire breakdown anywhere:
- The standard tire wrench comes with every car, but it’s amazing how often people remove it. Don’t. Leave the tool in the car.
- The jack. This fantastic tool uses physics to lift weight exponentially greater than itself. It’s essential to raise a car’s weight to replace a tire.
- A rubber mallet. Car dealers don’t include this tool in a new car, but it should always be added. If you don’t have the strength to turn a tire wrench and move a fully-tightened tire nut, then you’re going to need something that can force the wrench to turn. The mallet uses brute force, but it works very well.
- Eye protection. Things have a way of sparking or bouncing off of tools. Getting a bit of metal or road grit in your eye will make it temporarily impossible to fix anything. A good pair of eye protection glasses can be found at any hardware store.
- Basic leather or mechanic’s gloves. The same way you protect your eyes, you need to protect your hands with tools. Even a machine can cut a hand under pressure. Protect yourself.
Peter Laczko Insurance Inc. can help with car damage and accident protection via insurance, but also being prepared for a flat will ensure your ability to get back on the road quickly.
