What happens if I drive my GMC on a flat tire?

Driving on a flat or underinflated tire can put extra stress on your wheels and alignment. While it’s sometimes necessary to drive a short distance on a flat tire to get to a safe place, don’t take any other trips in your C3500 until you can have the flat tire repaired or replaced.

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

Temporary sealants will solve your problem… for a little bit. If you’ve seen temporary or emergency tire sealant before (it usually comes in a can), it can be tempting to turn to this as a solution for your flat tire. Keep in mind that these fixes could buy you some time to get to Firestone Complete Auto Care for a proper repair, but they could also cause some harm in the process (for example, damage to your TPMS). Plus, using a product like this could void your tire warranty.

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

While this sounds great in theory, keep in mind that most spare tires are not designed for distance or speed. The compact spare tire that most likely sits inside your 1986 GMC C3500 is intended for only a few days of use, so don’t use it as a substitute for getting your tire repaired.

Who offers GMC C3500 tire repair?

In most cases, your nearby Firestone Complete Auto Care can handle your GMC C3500 tire repair. Ultimately, the severity of the damage will determine if your tires can be repaired.

What is causing the tires on my C3500 to keep losing air?

Your C3500 tires might keep losing air due to a leaking valve stem, puncture or hole in the tire tread or sidewall, or damaged wheel.

Do all four tires on a GMC C3500 have to be replaced at the same time?

While it may not always be necessary to replace all four tires on your C3500, it’s advised you replace them in pairs or all at once to ensure optimal safety and performance. Having two new tires and two worn tires can put you at risk since the worn tires might not have as good of traction as the new ones. Reference your owner’s manual to see if you will need to replace all four tires due to a large difference in tread.

1986 GMC C3500 Flat Tire Repair Service

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Get Tires for Your GMC C3500

It’s best to introduce yourself to new roads with a firm grip. Find the best tires for your GMC C3500 at Firestone Complete Auto Care, and schedule your installation appointment online in minutes.

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Get Your GMC C3500 Tire Repaired

City populations are exploding. New roads are being built, and old ones are getting a face lift. It seems construction is everywhere these days! Unfortunately, this can mean a higher chance of a flat or damaged tire caused by debris in the road. If your 1986 GMC C3500 is in need of a tire inspection or possible flat tire repair, Firestone Complete Auto Care has your back. Our tire technicians can determine whether it's safe to plug and patch the tire, or whether it needs to be replaced. 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 we determine that your 1986 GMC C3500 tire can be safely repaired, we'll follow three basic steps to repair it: (1) Remove the tire from the wheel for inspection and repair, (2) fill the puncture to keep the moisture out, and (3) re-seal the inside lining of your tire so that air won’t escape.

Tire Replacement for Your GMC C3500

Sometimes, 1986 GMC C3500 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. Other tire damage that can't be safely repaired includes a tire puncture with a diameter bigger than ¼ inch; a tire with a puncture or damage outside the tread area; a tire with multiple punctures that are less than 16 inches apart; and a tire with tread separation or significant cuts.

Sometimes, it's in your best interest to buy one, two, or four new tires depending on GMC's recommendation. For vehicles with AWD, manufacturers recommend replacing all four tires simultaneously. This is because the AWD system can only function optimally when all tires are uniform. However, this may not be necessary if your remaining three tires are new. You might be able to replace one tire as long as it's the same brand, type, and size as the other three. Your tire technician can help you decide how many tires to replace and the kind of tire to purchase.

GMC C3500 Tire Inspection

A flat tire? That’s pretty hard to ignore. But other tire damage? It’s not always obvious! 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 1986 GMC C3500 in for a tire inspection.

GMC C3500 Tire Repair Questions

What happens if I drive my GMC on a flat tire? Driving on a flat or underinflated tire can put extra stress on your wheels and alignment. While it’s sometimes necessary to drive a short distance on a flat tire to get to a safe place, don’t take any other trips in your C3500 until you can have the flat tire repaired or replaced.
Can I use an emergency/temporary sealant to fix my GMC's flat tire? Temporary sealants will solve your problem… for a little bit. If you’ve seen temporary or emergency tire sealant before (it usually comes in a can), it can be tempting to turn to this as a solution for your flat tire. Keep in mind that these fixes could buy you some time to get to Firestone Complete Auto Care for a proper repair, but they could also cause some harm in the process (for example, damage to your TPMS). Plus, using a product like this could void your tire warranty.
What’s the harm in using my spare tire for a while? While this sounds great in theory, keep in mind that most spare tires are not designed for distance or speed. The compact spare tire that most likely sits inside your 1986 GMC C3500 is intended for only a few days of use, so don’t use it as a substitute for getting your tire repaired.
Who offers GMC C3500 tire repair? In most cases, your nearby Firestone Complete Auto Care can handle your GMC C3500 tire repair. Ultimately, the severity of the damage will determine if your tires can be repaired.
What is causing the tires on my C3500 to keep losing air? Your C3500 tires might keep losing air due to a leaking valve stem, puncture or hole in the tire tread or sidewall, or damaged wheel.
Do all four tires on a GMC C3500 have to be replaced at the same time? While it may not always be necessary to replace all four tires on your C3500, it’s advised you replace them in pairs or all at once to ensure optimal safety and performance. Having two new tires and two worn tires can put you at risk since the worn tires might not have as good of traction as the new ones. Reference your owner’s manual to see if you will need to replace all four tires due to a large difference in tread.

Repair Services for Your 1986 GMC C3500

Nothing lasts forever. Even your GMC C3500's many parts and pieces. When something breaks, we're ready. Click on a repair below to learn more about 1986 GMC C3500 repairs.