WHAT HAPPENS IF YOUR TESLA GETS A FLAT TIRE?? It’s Easy If You Do It Smart
If your Tesla gets a flat tire, the first step is to find a safe location to stop the vehicle and turn on your hazard lights. While changing a tire on a Tesla may seem similar to changing a tire on a conventional car, it's important to follow the instructions specific to your model and seek assistance from a qualified technician if you are unsure about the process.
If your tire is damaged and your vehicle becomes inoperable, you can request roadside assistance immediately from the bottom of the Tesla app home screen. If your Tesla gets a flat tire, you should follow these steps:
- Pull over to a safe location: If you notice a flat tire while driving, try to pull over to a safe location as quickly as possible. Turn on your hazard lights and use your steering wheel to guide your vehicle to the side of the road.
- Assess the damage: Once you are safely stopped, assess the damage to the tire. If it is a small puncture, you may be able to temporarily repair it using a tire sealant kit. If the tire is completely flat or damaged beyond repair, you will need to replace it with a spare tire.
- Use the Tesla Mobile App: Tesla owners can use the Tesla Mobile App to request roadside assistance. Simply open the app, tap 'Request Roadside Assistance', and follow the prompts.
- Contact Tesla Roadside Assistance: If you are unable to use the Tesla Mobile App, you can contact Tesla Roadside Assistance directly. Their number can be found in your owner's manual or on the Tesla website.
- Install the spare tire: If your Tesla is equipped with a spare tire, you can install it yourself or with the help of a roadside assistance technician. Be sure to follow the instructions in your owner's manual carefully.
It's important to note that not all Tesla models come with a spare tire. Some models come with tire repair kits that can be used to temporarily fix a flat tire. In this case, you will still need to contact Tesla Roadside Assistance to have the tire replaced or repaired permanently.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind if your Tesla gets a flat tire:
- Be prepared: It's a good idea to keep a tire repair kit and a tire pressure gauge in your Tesla, even if your model comes with a spare tire. This way, you can check your tire pressure regularly and make small repairs if necessary.
- Know your tire warranty: Tesla offers a tire warranty for their vehicles, which covers tire damage caused by road hazards. Be sure to check the details of your warranty so you know what is covered.
- Consider a roadside assistance plan: If you frequently drive in remote areas or on long trips, it may be a good idea to invest in a roadside assistance plan. Many insurance companies and auto clubs offer plans that can provide peace of mind and help you quickly get back on the road if you experience a flat tire or another issue.
- Stay safe: If you need to change a tire on the side of the road, be sure to take safety precautions. Use your hazard lights, set up reflective triangles or flares, and wear bright clothing to make yourself visible to other drivers. If you don't feel comfortable changing a tire yourself, wait for roadside assistance to arrive.
- Monitor your tire pressure: Regularly checking your tire pressure can help prevent flat tires from occurring in the first place. Your Tesla dashboard display will show your tire pressure readings, and you can use a tire pressure gauge to ensure they are accurate. If you notice a significant drop in tire pressure, it's a good idea to have your tires checked for damage.
It's important to note that Tesla recommends that owners do not attempt to repair or replace a flat tire themselves, and instead seek assistance from a qualified tire technician. Tesla also provides roadside assistance to help with flat tire issues, and you can contact them through the Tesla mobile app or touchscreen. If you have Tesla's roadside assistance program, you can call for help if you are unable to change the tire yourself.
