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

Driving on a flat tire is not a good idea. Your C3500 engine will keep running with a flat tire, but you could damage your wheel by continuing to drive on a flat.

Is temporary sealant bad for my GMC's tires?

A temporary sealant may be able to help you get to a repair location safely. But temporary or emergency sealants could possibly damage TPMS sensors, and in some cases may even void the warranty on your Bridgestone or Firestone tires. If your tire needs extensive repair, sealant can add time and labor costs to the process.

How long can I drive my GMC on a spare tire?

Don't rely on your spare tire for too long. Your 1996 GMC C3500 may come equipped with a compact spare tire. A spare is different than an everyday tire and is only designed to be driven a certain number of miles at lower speeds.

Who can repair GMC C3500 tires?

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 can cause C3500 tires to keep losing air?

Possible reasons for your C3500 tires continuously losing air include a leaking valve steam, wheel damage, and a puncture or hole in the rubber.

Can I replace just one or two tires on my GMC C3500?

Replacing all four tires on your C3500 is not always necessary. However, it is recommended that you replace tires in pairs or all four tires at the same time for safety and performance reasons. If you have two new tires and two worn tires, the worn tires may not grip the road as well as the new tires, which could cause your car to slide or lose control. Always refer to your vehicle owner’s manual since some vehicles require you to replace all four tires if there is a tread difference greater than 3/32”.

1996 GMC C3500 Tire Repair Services

Get GMC Tire Repair

Get Tires for Your GMC C3500

Keep your car in its best shape from the bottom up. Shop for tires today, then schedule a fast, easy installation appointment at Firestone Complete Auto Care.

Shop Tires

Repairing Your GMC C3500 Tire

City populations are exploding. Roads are expanding. It seems construction is everywhere these days! New progress is exciting, but the road debris it leaves behind may mean trouble for your tires. If your 1996 GMC C3500 is in need of a tire inspection or possible flat tire repair, Firestone Complete Auto Care has your back. In some cases, a tire doesn’t have to be replaced – it can be plugged and patched with a simple repair. Depending on the damage, though, a repair might not be the right move. Our technicians can determine which option is best for your situation. 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 1996 GMC C3500 tire puncture can be repaired, we'll follow three basic steps to repair it: (1) Separate the tire from the vehicle wheel, (2) use a filler to close up the puncture (this is to keep moisture from getting in), and (3) re-seal the inside lining of your tire so that air won’t escape.

When Is It Time for GMC C3500 Tire Replacement?

Sometimes, 1996 GMC C3500 tire damage calls for more than a repair. For tires that have less than 2/32nd inch of tread left, a repair simply isn’t possible – even if the tire damage is minimal. 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 tire with a puncture or damage outside the tread area; a tire with two or more punctures that are less than 16 inches away from each other; and a tire with cuts or tread separation.

When your damaged tire can’t be repaired, consult GMC’s recommendations for replacing one, two, or all four of your tires. 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. But, if you’ve recently replaced your tires and they don’t have significant wear, a new set might not be needed. 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. Stop tire damage in its tracks. Start with a tire inspection on your 1996 GMC C3500.

Frequently Asked GMC C3500 Tire Repair Questions

What happens if I drive my GMC on a flat tire? Driving on a flat tire is not a good idea. Your C3500 engine will keep running with a flat tire, but you could damage your wheel by continuing to drive on a flat.
Is temporary sealant bad for my GMC's tires? A temporary sealant may be able to help you get to a repair location safely. But temporary or emergency sealants could possibly damage TPMS sensors, and in some cases may even void the warranty on your Bridgestone or Firestone tires. If your tire needs extensive repair, sealant can add time and labor costs to the process.
How long can I drive my GMC on a spare tire? Don't rely on your spare tire for too long. Your 1996 GMC C3500 may come equipped with a compact spare tire. A spare is different than an everyday tire and is only designed to be driven a certain number of miles at lower speeds.
Who can repair GMC C3500 tires? 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 can cause C3500 tires to keep losing air? Possible reasons for your C3500 tires continuously losing air include a leaking valve steam, wheel damage, and a puncture or hole in the rubber.
Can I replace just one or two tires on my GMC C3500? Replacing all four tires on your C3500 is not always necessary. However, it is recommended that you replace tires in pairs or all four tires at the same time for safety and performance reasons. If you have two new tires and two worn tires, the worn tires may not grip the road as well as the new tires, which could cause your car to slide or lose control. Always refer to your vehicle owner’s manual since some vehicles require you to replace all four tires if there is a tread difference greater than 3/32”.

1996 GMC C3500 Repair

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 1996 GMC C3500 repairs.