Kalamazoo roads are hard on tires. Freeze-thaw cycles open potholes on Kalamazoo Avenue every March, construction debris finds its way onto Sprinkle Road, and a nail can turn up anywhere. Changing a tire is simple in a driveway, but it's a different job on a narrow shoulder with traffic going past, or with lug nuts that were tightened by an air gun three years ago. That's when you call Towing Kalamazoo.
How a roadside tire change works
Our technician brings a proper floor jack, wheel chocks and a full set of sockets. They'll take off the flat, fit your spare and torque the lug nuts to spec, then check the spare's pressure before you drive away. If your car has wheel locks, find the key adapter before we arrive. It's usually in the glove box or with the spare.
When there's no usable spare
Plenty of newer cars come with only a sealant kit and an air compressor, and some spares turn out to be flat themselves after years in the trunk. If you have no spare, or it won't hold air, we can tow you to a tire shop, a dealer or home. For vehicles with all-wheel drive or runflat tires, a flatbed is usually the right way to make that trip.
A few things to know about spares
- Compact spares are temporary. Most are rated for about 50 mph and a limited distance. Get the original tire repaired or replaced as soon as you can.
- Check your spare twice a year. A spare that's been in the trunk for a few winters often has far less air than it should.
- Don't drive on a flat. Even a few blocks can ruin the wheel and the tire, turning a patch into a full replacement.
Safety while you wait
If you can roll slowly, get the car onto level, firm ground and away from traffic before you stop, such as a parking lot, a wide shoulder or a side street. Put the hazards on, set the parking brake, and wait in a safe spot rather than beside the flat tire.
Flat Tire Change questions
Can you repair my tire at the roadside?
We fit your spare so you can get to a tire shop, where a proper patch or replacement can be done. A roadside plug isn't a lasting repair.
What if I have two flat tires?
With only one spare, you'll need a tow. Tell the dispatcher how many tires are flat so we send the right truck.
Can you change a tire on a pickup or van?
Yes. Our technicians carry jacks rated for pickups, SUVs and vans, as well as cars.