Can I drive my Ford on a flat tire?

A flat tire that’s not addressed can take a terrible toll on the rest of your car. Until you have it repaired or replaced, drive your Explorer as little as possible to reduce your risk of damage to the wheels and alignment – or further damage to that already struggling tire!

Can I use an emergency/temporary sealant to fix my Ford's flat tire?

Fast fixes are a mixed blessing. They’ll help you get your Ford Explorer to Firestone Complete Auto Care, but don’t count on them to keep you on the road for very long. Using a temporary sealant may also void a Bridgestone or Firestone tire warranty.

What’s the harm in using my spare tire for a while?

For starters, your spare tire is designed to go short distances at low speeds. It’s not built to withstand the rough toll that the road can take from everyday driving! Putting off tire repair can also cause uneven tire wear in the long run – which could lead to a potentially costly toll on your steering and suspension system.

Who can repair Ford Explorer tires?

Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care can generally take care of most Ford Explorer tire repairs. However, it depends on the severity of the damage.

Why do the tires on my Explorer keep losing air?

Tire punctures, damaged wheels, and leaking valve stems are possible reasons for your Explorer tires continuously losing air.

Is it necessary to replace all four Ford Explorer tires at once?

It's important to consider replacing your Explorer tires in pairs or all four at once for safety and performance reasons, even if only two of them appear to be worn. If the remaining two tires are significantly newer, they may have different grip than the older tires, which can affect your vehicle’s handling. Always double-check your owner's manual since some vehicles require all four tires to be replaced if there's a tread difference of more than 3/32”.

2018 Ford Explorer Tire Repair Services

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It’s best to introduce yourself to new roads with a firm grip. Find the best tires for your Ford Explorer at Firestone Complete Auto Care, and schedule your installation appointment online in minutes.

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Get Your Ford Explorer Tire Repaired

Cities are growing. Roads are expanding. There's construction around every corner! That means more tire-damaging road debris and flat tires. If your 2018 Ford Explorer is in need of a tire inspection or possible flat tire repair, Firestone Complete Auto Care has your back. There’s a chance your tire could be plugged and patched (rather than replaced). Our technicians can inspect your tire and let you know if it is safe to repair. We’ll begin by taking a look at where the damage is, the type and extent of the tire damage, and how all of your tires are wearing.

If your 2018 Ford Explorer tire puncture can be repaired, we'll follow three basic steps to repair it: (1) Remove the tire from the wheel for inspection and repair, (2) use a filler to close up the puncture (this is to keep moisture from getting in), and (3) secure and seal the inner tire liner to ensure the tire is airtight.

When Is It Time for Ford Explorer Tire Replacement?

Sometimes, 2018 Ford Explorer tire damage calls for more than a repair. Even if your tire damage is minor, if your tires have less than 2/32nd inch of tread remaining, a repair isn’t possible (or safe). At this tread depth, the tire is worn out and must be replaced. Some tire issues are easy and straightforward to repair, but other kinds of tire damage can’t be properly repaired. Tire damage that can’t be repaired effectively include a tire with a puncture larger than ¼ inch in diameter; a puncture that lies outside the tire tread area; multiple punctures that are too close together (less than 16 inches between them); and a tire with tread separation or significant cuts.

When your damaged tire can’t be repaired, consult Ford’s recommendations for replacing one, two, or all four of your tires. For example, it’s usually recommended that you replace all four tires at the same time on AWD vehicles. Why? Because having four identical tires is vital for the AWD system to perform like it’s supposed to. However, this may not be necessary if your remaining three tires are new. If you can replace your damaged tire with the same type, brand, and size as the others, you may be able to save costs and only purchase one replacement. Need help? A tire technician can walk you through the options and help you determine what’s best for your vehicle’s performance and longevity.

Do I Need a Tire Inspection for My Ford Explorer?

A flat tire is a surefire sign of tire damage, but other indicators of tire issues aren’t so easy to spot. Inconspicuous issues like bulging sidewalls, exhaust noise, leaks, or bent rims may indicate issues that need immediate attention. Stay ahead of potentially dangerous tire issues. Bring your 2018 Ford Explorer in for a tire inspection.

Frequently Asked Ford Explorer Tire Repair Questions

Can I drive my Ford on a flat tire? A flat tire that’s not addressed can take a terrible toll on the rest of your car. Until you have it repaired or replaced, drive your Explorer as little as possible to reduce your risk of damage to the wheels and alignment – or further damage to that already struggling tire!
Can I use an emergency/temporary sealant to fix my Ford's flat tire? Fast fixes are a mixed blessing. They’ll help you get your Ford Explorer to Firestone Complete Auto Care, but don’t count on them to keep you on the road for very long. Using a temporary sealant may also void a Bridgestone or Firestone tire warranty.
What’s the harm in using my spare tire for a while? For starters, your spare tire is designed to go short distances at low speeds. It’s not built to withstand the rough toll that the road can take from everyday driving! Putting off tire repair can also cause uneven tire wear in the long run – which could lead to a potentially costly toll on your steering and suspension system.
Who can repair Ford Explorer tires? Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care can generally take care of most Ford Explorer tire repairs. However, it depends on the severity of the damage.
Why do the tires on my Explorer keep losing air? Tire punctures, damaged wheels, and leaking valve stems are possible reasons for your Explorer tires continuously losing air.
Is it necessary to replace all four Ford Explorer tires at once? It's important to consider replacing your Explorer tires in pairs or all four at once for safety and performance reasons, even if only two of them appear to be worn. If the remaining two tires are significantly newer, they may have different grip than the older tires, which can affect your vehicle’s handling. Always double-check your owner's manual since some vehicles require all four tires to be replaced if there's a tread difference of more than 3/32”.

Repair Services for Your 2018 Ford Explorer

Nothing lasts forever. Even your Ford Explorer's many parts and pieces. When something breaks, we're ready. Click on a repair below to learn more about 2018 Ford Explorer repairs.