A flat tire can happen to anyone, anywhere, and it often comes at the worst possible time. Knowing what is in your trunk and how to use it can turn a roadside emergency into a minor inconvenience, yet many Columbia drivers have never checked their spare or the tools that come with it.

First, know what type of spare you have. Many vehicles come with a compact temporary spare, often called a donut, which is meant only to get you to a repair shop at reduced speed and for a limited distance. Some vehicles have a full-size spare, and a growing number come with no spare at all, relying instead on a tire inflator kit or run-flat tires. Understanding which you have, before you need it, is important.

Just as important is making sure the spare is actually usable. Spare tires lose air over time, so a spare that has sat for years may be flat or dry-rotted when you finally reach for it. The jack and tools should be present and in working order, and it helps to know where they are stored and how they work. A quick check now prevents an unpleasant surprise later.

At Exhaust Plus in Columbia, we can check the condition and pressure of your spare, make sure your tools are all there, and of course repair or replace a damaged tire when you need it. If you are not sure your spare is road-ready, stop by our Columbia shop and let us take a look before you need it.