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

Driving on a flat tire is not a good idea. Your S15 engine will keep running with a flat tire, but you could damage your wheel by continuing to drive on a flat.

Will a temporary sealant fix my GMC's flat tire?

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?

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 1985 GMC S15 is intended for only a few days of use, so don’t use it as a substitute for getting your tire repaired.

Who repairs GMC S15 tires?

Your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care is equipped to handle most GMC S15 tire repairs, but it depends on how severe the damage is.

What is causing the tires on my S15 to keep losing air?

Your S15 tires might keep losing air due to a leaking valve stem, puncture or hole in the tire tread or sidewall, or damaged wheel.

Is it necessary to replace all four GMC S15 tires at once?

It's important to consider replacing your S15 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”.

Tire Repair for Your 1985 GMC S15

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GMC S15 Tire Repair

Urban areas are booming. 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 the road has been rough on your 1985 GMC S15 tires, Firestone Complete Auto Care can help. 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 start by evaluating the state of wear, the location of damage, type of damage, and the size of the damage.

If a repair on your 1985 GMC S15 tire is feasible and safe, 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) secure and seal the inner tire liner to ensure the tire is airtight.

When Is It Time for GMC S15 Tire Replacement?

Sometimes, 1985 GMC S15 tire damage calls for more than a repair. Tires with less than 2/32nd inch tread remaining can't be repaired, no matter how minor the damage. 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 with a puncture larger than ¼ inch in diameter; a tire with a puncture or damage outside the tread area; multiple punctures that are too close together (less than 16 inches between them); and major cuts or separated treads.

Depending on what GMC recommends for your car, you’ll want to consider purchasing one new tire, two new tires, or a new full set. Manufacturers of AWD vehicles, for example, often recommend replacing all four tires at once because AWD systems need uniform tires to operate properly. Just replaced your tires and only one is damaged? You may not need to buy another new full set after all. You might be able to replace one tire as long as it's the same brand, type, and size as the other three. 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 GMC S15?

Some tire issues can cause you to have a flat, but other damage isn't so noticeable right away. Tire damage can also show itself through subtle symptoms, like dents in your wheel rims, excessive noise coming from the exhaust system, bumps or bulges in tire sidewalls, or even leaks underneath the car. Stop tire damage in its tracks. Start with a tire inspection on your 1985 GMC S15.

Frequently Asked GMC S15 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 S15 engine will keep running with a flat tire, but you could damage your wheel by continuing to drive on a flat.
Will a temporary sealant fix my GMC's flat tire? 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? 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 1985 GMC S15 is intended for only a few days of use, so don’t use it as a substitute for getting your tire repaired.
Who repairs GMC S15 tires? Your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care is equipped to handle most GMC S15 tire repairs, but it depends on how severe the damage is.
What is causing the tires on my S15 to keep losing air? Your S15 tires might keep losing air due to a leaking valve stem, puncture or hole in the tire tread or sidewall, or damaged wheel.
Is it necessary to replace all four GMC S15 tires at once? It's important to consider replacing your S15 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”.

1985 GMC S15 Repair

Your GMC S15 runs best when it’s well cared for. Keep your car running newer, longer with repairs from Firestone Complete Auto Care. Learn more about 1985 GMC S15 repairs below.