Don't Neglect Your Spare (Spare Tire Care)Posted August 22, 2021 9:52 AMIf you've ever had a flat tire, then you know welcome it is to have a spare tire that is properly inflated, in good shape and easy to get to. Problem is many of us don't even give our spare tire (if we even have one) a second thought. If you have an SUV or truck with a spare, it may be mounted outside the vehicle, such as on the tailgate or underneath the vehicle. All of them, especially those underneath, take the brunt of debris, moisture, salt and dirt from the road surface, a potpourri of corrosion potential. The hardware that holds these on can rust into a solid mess, making it hard for you or even a roadside assistance service to get off. If you have one of those, have it checked and maintained at your vehicle repair facility on a regular basis. They should be lubricated and cleaned periodically, and some recommend doing this service every time you have your tires rotated. If the spare is the same size as the tires on the vehicle, it may be a good idea to have it rotated with the others. Some vehicles have compact spares that are in a small well in the trunk or some other spot. Most drivers don't pay any attention to them. Over time, air leaks out of those spares, leaving them flat when you most need them. When you have your vehicle in for service or routine maintenance, ask your service advisor for his or her advice on making sure the spare is inflated properly and cleaned, usually at least twice a year. You may not know it, but your vehicle may not have any spare at all. Instead, it may have an inflator kit that you are supposed to use to inflate and seal a flat tire. That sealant has a limited life span and should be replaced every few years. Check with your service advisor to make sure the kit is up to date and will do the job when called upon. Manufacturers know a flat tire's always a possibility. No matter what contingency solution they've included with your vehicle, keep it in shape and in good working order. When you need it, you'll be very glad you did. Arizona Auto and Radiator Repair | ||
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AZ Auto and Radiator performed a thorough check of my vehicle and found some issues that I suspected were present, but were never diagnosed by another local auto business. The owner took the time to show me (on the vehicle) what he recommended and why. Professional, friendly service, and they didn't pressure me to have everything fixed immediately. Highly recommended!~ Susanne, Sierra Vista AZ
As usual, Danny and staff did an AWESOME job! Danny and AnnMarie are wonderful people and are as honest as the day is long. AZ Auto and Radiator have been doing the maintenance on all of my vehicles since 1997 or 98, and I will continue to take my vehicle maintenance needs to them. They do excellent work, and will tell you the truth about your vechicle maintenance needs; without all the extra stuff that other auto shops will try to sell you. Take your vehicle to Danny and crew for you next vehicle maintenance needs--You Won't Be Sorry!~ Guy, Huachuca City AZ
