Invite Us to Your Next Blowout

A tire blowout doesn't have to go the way it does in the movies. We've all seen it. The bad guy zooms away in his car, and it seems like he's in the clear until the good guy carefully aims and shoots one of his tires out. The villain's car dramatically flips and rolls a few times and comes to a fiery stop. We're not saying tire blowouts aren't serious, but with the right preparation, they don't have to end badly.

What Causes a Tire Blowout?

A blowout is the opposite of a slow leak. It’s an immediate loss of air due to an explosive failure in the tire wall. A blowout can occur from a puncture to the tire, either from running something over or from a bullet hole (if being a movie character is your thing), but the likelihood is that it will happen from driving on old, worn tires. It’s important to check your tires regularly and replace them when needed, especially if they're balding or cracked. If a blowout happens to you, stay calm. The loud popping sound may startle you, and the car will try to pull to one side. Follow these steps to safely handle a tire blowout:

What to Do in Case of a Blowout

1. Don't slam on the brakes. Your car is already pulling to one side and possibly starting to swerve. That is from the sudden loss of momentum paired with uneven tires. A very gentle acceleration to keep the momentum will help retain control of your car.
2. Keep your steering wheel pointed straight ahead. Don't try switching lanes or turning. Drive straight forward. You can signal the other drivers with your hazard lights.
3. Once you've got your car under control, slowly let your foot off the gas and let your car begin to slow itself down. Keep an eye on traffic for an opening.
4. Once your car has slowed to a safer speed, 25 mph or so, take the first safe opening and gradually steer to the shoulder and out of the way of traffic. From there you can call for help.

We know life can be busy and car trouble doesn't make it any easier. Contact us today to help keep your tires in pristine condition and keep your car, and your day, running smoothly.