While tires are made to last, they are still susceptible to punctures as you travel. You might unknowingly run over a nail, staple wire, glass shard, or any other sharp debris, which can punch a hole in one of your tires. This will allow air to escape from the tire and eventually deflate it.
We can’t stress enough the importance of having a set of tire tools ready in your car in case you get a flat tire. You never know when this unfortunate event would happen, but if you have the right tools at hand, you can get back on the road in no time.
As you need to save precious cabin and cargo space in your car, it’s not advisable to carry all the tools in your garage all the time. We listed down the essential tire tools you must have in your car when hitting the road.
- Lug Wrench
A lug wrench (also called tire iron) is a type of socket wrench specifically made to loosen and tighten the lug nuts on automotive wheels. The L-shaped variant usually comes with your car, so make sure it stays there in the trunk. You can also get the cross-shaped one for faster turning and extra leverage. - Jack
The jack is used to raise a part of the vehicle off the ground so you can change tires. A scissor jack is usually supplied with the car, but you may bring a hydraulic jack instead as it works faster and easier. Remember, the spare tire, lug wrench, and jack go hand in hand, so make sure you have all three at all times. - Tire Pressure Gauge
You need this tool to check the air pressure within the tires, letting you determine if you need to add or release air. Even if you don’t have a flat tire, a tire gauge is needed to ensure your tires keep the recommended pressure. - Tire Inflator
Your spare tire’s air pressure might not be within the recommended levels upon installing it. You need a tire inflator to add some air into the tire if needed. - Multi-Tool with Pliers
You can use this tool for many things. The pliers, for instance, can pull out the debris that had punctured your tire.
Having tire tools in your car ensures you won’t be helpless on the road in the event of a flat tire. If you’re in Lincoln, NE and you need to get a tire repaired, visit Graham Tire. Our tire repair experts can help make your punctured tire roadworthy again.
