A tire puncture can happen at any time — whether you're cruising on the highway or parked in your driveway. When you drive a reliable Chevy, you expect durability, but even the sturdiest tires are vulnerable to nails, screws, glass, and road debris. Knowing how to safely handle a tire puncture can help you avoid unnecessary damage, reduce the risk of being stranded, and even save money on future tire repairs or replacements. Whether you drive a Chevy Silverado, Equinox, or Malibu, this guide will walk you through the steps to manage a tire puncture safely and efficiently.
Step 1: Assess the Situation
If you suspect a tire puncture while driving — such as hearing a loud pop or feeling the vehicle pulling to one side — reduce your speed gradually and find a safe location to pull over. Avoid sudden braking, as that can worsen tire damage. Look for a flat, stable surface away from heavy traffic.
Step 2: Inspect the Tire
Once safely parked, visually inspect the affected tire. Look for visible objects like nails or screws embedded in the tread or sidewall. Sometimes, you may hear air hissing out or notice the tire visibly deflating. If the puncture is in the sidewall or near the edge of the tread, the tire may be beyond repair and need replacement.
Step 3: Use a Tire Repair Kit (Temporary Solution)
If your Chevy is equipped with a tire repair kit (found in some newer models), follow the kit’s instructions to temporarily seal the puncture. Most kits include a sealant canister and an inflator that injects the sealant into the tire and refills it with air. Keep in mind that this is a temporary fix meant to get you to the nearest service center — not a permanent solution.
Step 4: Install the Spare Tire (If Necessary)
If the puncture is too severe for a temporary repair, or your Chevy doesn’t have a tire repair kit, you may need to install the spare tire. To do this:
• Locate the spare tire, jack, and lug wrench (usually in the trunk or under the vehicle in trucks and SUVs).• Loosen the lug nuts slightly before jacking up the vehicle.
• Use the jack to lift your Chevy until the flat tire is off the ground.
• Remove the flat tire and replace it with the spare.
• Tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern for even pressure.
• Lower the vehicle and fully tighten the lug nuts.
Step 5: Check Tire Pressure
Whether you use a repair kit or a spare tire, always check the tire pressure before driving further. Many Chevy models have built-in tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS), but it’s still a good idea to carry a manual tire gauge for accuracy.
Step 6: Drive Cautiously and Seek Professional Help
Temporary repairs and spare tires are not designed for long-term use or high speeds. Drive cautiously and head directly to a professional service center for a thorough inspection and permanent repair or replacement. Continuing to drive on a damaged tire can lead to blowouts and further damage to your Chevy’s suspension and alignment.
When to Repair vs. Replace
Tire punctures in the tread area (the flat part that contacts the road) are often repairable if they are less than 1/4 inch in diameter. Punctures in the sidewall or shoulder area are typically not safe to repair and require a complete tire replacement. Professional technicians can assess the damage and advise you on the safest solution.
Visit Sarchione Chevy of Randolph for Expert Tire Repairs and Replacements
If you’ve experienced a tire puncture, visit Sarchione Chevy of Randolph for professional tire repair and replacement services. Our certified technicians can assess the damage, recommend whether a repair or replacement is necessary, and ensure your Chevy’s tires are properly balanced and aligned for optimal performance.
While you’re here, take some time to explore our wide selection of new and pre-owned Chevy vehicles. From rugged trucks to versatile SUVs and fuel-efficient sedans, we have the perfect vehicle for every driver. Visit Sarchione Chevy of Randolph today for expert tire service and to find your next Chevy.