Prudent and Practical

Ah, Friday morning!  The week is pretty much over and it’s going to be a good day.  You get out to your car and there it is… a flat tire!  Or in my case, I’m awoken by, “Hurry!  What do I do?  I’ve got a flat tire… help me!  I’m going to be late for work!!!”

After spending 45 minutes trying to get the tire off and the spare on (since most auto repair places aren’t open this early), D is on his way to the only place in town that’s open.

We’ve lived in this town for over three years and I’ve suffered three flat tires – spending over $90 each time for a new tire.  While discussing the issue with my dad, he suggested getting the tire patched; that it would cost under $20.  I never thought of this and feel taken advantage of for the tire and lube shop who didn’t suggest the cheaper option.

I suggested D have this done and it ended up costing only $10 including taking off the spare and putting on the patched tire!  He was told by the place that if the hole is big enough (nail or screw), they’ll do a rubber plug-patch.  If it’s smaller than that, they’ll do “just a regular patch.”  Although it was very inexpensive, it takes a while to do – or what seems like a long time if you’re trying to get to work.  D was there for about 45 minutes.  The auto guys told him that it is as safe as a normal tire.

If you’re handy, you can do this at home.  You can purchase a kit from an auto store and follow the instructions and this tutorial at About.com.