There are different objects on the road that could puncture the tire. You are at a higher risk of puncture when you are driving on rough road surfaces. To avoid being stranded, you can quickly resolve the problem when you use fix-a-flat.
Though this will resolve the problem and you can continue your journey but many people are skeptical about whether that is a permanent solution. Therefore, they ask if they can patch the tire after using fix-a-flat.
Can you patch a tire after using fix-a-flat? The answer to this question is very simple. Yes, you can still patch the tire after using fix-a-flat.
This is because the fix-a-flat is only a temporary solution to the problem. Once you get to your destination, you should seek a permanent solution by patching the affected portion of the tire. Keep reading this article for more information.
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Do I need a fix-a-flat?
A spare tire and a tire that is in good condition give some car owners confidence and they think, at times, that they will not be stranded on the road, even if they have a flat tire.
They believe they can replace the punctured tire with the spare and continue their trip. What then happens in a situation where the spare tire also gets punctured? They will become stranded. To avoid being in such a situation, you can use fix-a-flat. Here are some of the reasons why you need fix-a-flat.
To avoid emergency
You will be stranded in a situation where your spare tire also gets punctured. Even the spare is unfit due to lack of usage for a longer duration.
The truth is that situations like this could happen when there is an emergency. You can easily fix the punctured tire with fix-a-flat, then continue your journey. Moreover, it will also save you from being stranded by the roadside.
Sustain flat tire
You could be at risk if you have a flat tire by the roadside, especially if it happens in areas where there is a security threat. In a situation like this, you could lose your valuables while trying to resolve the issue by the roadside. Fix-a-flat can prevent being in such a compromising situation and you will get to a safe location or the next tire shop.
Some drawbacks of the fix-a-flat
Despite the tangible argument that many users of fix-a-flat have about its usage, it also has its critics. The following are some of the reasons why many people do not prefer the use of fix-a-flat.
Temporary solution
Though fix-a-flat will resolve any issue that you have with a flat tire and prevent you from being stranded, it is still a temporary solution. You still need to fix the puncture when you get to your destination or you wear out the tire quickly.
Uneven wear
Did you know that the fix-a-flat can cause some parts of the tire to become heavier? This implies that the tires will experience uneven weight distribution. When the tire is in this condition for a longer duration, it will experience uneven wear. The next thing you will start thinking about is how to replace the tire.
Damage
Though the fix-a-flat is in liquid form, it will get hardened when you use it to fix a punctured tire. It could get stuck to the rim in the process. Getting rid of it from the rims could become a hassle. Apart from damaging the rim, it could also damage the pressure monitoring system. This could happen when the fix-a-flat blocks the hole that the TPMS needs to measure the system. Getting rid of it from the hole is a difficult task.
Corrosive
Did you know that your car paint could be affected when you use fix-a-flat? When the liquid mixes with aluminum or rubber, it could become corrosive. This implies that the fender and the paint of your cars are at risk when you use fix-a-flat.
How do I use fix-a-flat?
using fix-a-flat could be a bit technical, especially when you are using it for the first time. Once you have it handy in your vehicle, you are free to use it in an emergency. Here are some steps you can follow when you want to use fix-a-flat.
Park the vehicle
Once you notice that the tire is punctured, the first thing that should come to your mind is to carefully and slowly pull over and park the car in a safe place.
Locate the puncture
Get down from your car and locate the affected tire. Once you have carefully parked your car, you should inspect the tire to locate it. You should thoroughly inspect it to be sure the puncture is not more than one. Afterward, you should remove the cap from the valve stem and keep it in a safe location.
Use fix-a-flat
Once you have successfully removed the cap from the valve stem, you can then, carefully attach the can of fix-a-flat to the valve.
Hold onto the can in an upright manner until the flat tire is filled. Once you are through with this, you should unscrew the can. Afterward, you should carefully return the valve cap.
You can continue your journey
If you have completed the steps highlighted above, you can then continue your journey. It is recommended that you start driving immediately. However, you should drive slowly. This will help the sealant to circulate and block all the holes.
Maintenance tips for tires
Tires are arguably the most abused part of the vehicle. You need to regularly care for them so that they can be in good condition and last for a longer duration. The following are some of the ways you can care for your tire.
Inspect the tire often
The tire is exposed to wear often so far you cruise it on different road surfaces. You can avoid sudden issues with the tire when you inspect it often. If you suspect an issue with the tire, you should replace or repair it quickly. You can also seek the assistance of a wheel expert.
Maintain the pressure level
One of the quickest ways to ruin a tire is to drive it for a longer distance when the pressure is low. You should always check the pressure level to avoid quick wear. Once the pressure is low, you should inflate it. Also, do not overinflate the tire.
Do not exceed the limit
The tires have limited capacity. This implies that you are subjecting the tires to quick ruin when you load cargo beyond the capacity of the tire. You can get a tire with a higher capacity if you want to load heavier cargo.
Balancing is important
To avoid uneven wear and quick ruin, you should balance the weight of the vehicle evenly on the tires. It is recommended that you should do this after mounting new tires and once in 6 months. Doing this will protect the tires and ensure a comfortable driving experience. Do not forget the alignment and bearing also.
Wash appropriately
Did you know you could be ruining the tire with the way you wash it? The truth is that you could ruin the tire when you wash it with harsh soaps.
You should avoid the use of acid-based or alcohol-based soaps. Moreover, you should pay more attention to washing the tires during winter and when you return from rough road surfaces.
Tips on buying a new tire
Picking from the various options available in the market could be an issue if you don’t have the right information. The following are some tips that can guide you when you want to buy a new tire.
Quality brand
There are several tire manufacturers but you should consider the popular brands that are known for their quality products. Though relatively unpopular brands are good, you should do your research before you buy any.
Know what you want
The size of the tire and other specifications that will work for a vehicle is different from what might work for others. You should know the specifications of your car before you approach the market. Moreover, you should consider the load capacity of any tire that you will buy.
Ask questions
If you will be buying tires for the first time, you should seek clarification from those who have experience. You can ask for recommendations from friends and wheel experts.
Warranty
You need assurance from the manufacturer that you are buying a durable product. Read the policy and ask questions before you pay for any tire.
Consider the road
The road where you will use the tire often is very important. Some tires are designed to work better on rough road surfaces while some perform better on tarred roads.
The knowledge of this will help you buy a tire that can withstand and grip better on the road you will ply often.
Can you patch a tire after using fix-a-flat-Conclusion
Fix-a-flat can save you from being stranded but can also lead to further damage to the wheel. Read this article for insight.
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I am passionate about all things automotive and have a deep understanding of the topic. As a mechanic, I use my free time to share knowledge of everyday challenges that any car owner can experience – helping you make informed decisions about tires.