Troubleshooting a Flat Tire
A driver pulls into the gas station with a flat tire and asks the attendant for assistance or advice on changing it, or if they have an air pump.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
flat
A flat tire means it has lost all its air and is deflated, like a balloon without air. Use this when describing a problem with your car tire.
inflate
To inflate something means to fill it with air, especially a tire. It's useful when asking for help to add air to a tire at a gas station.
air pump
An air pump is a machine that adds air to tires or other things. Many gas stations have them for customers to use when fixing low tires.
puncture
A puncture is a small hole in the tire, often from something sharp like a nail, causing air to leak out. Say this if you think your tire has a hole.
spare tire
A spare tire is an extra tire kept in your car for emergencies, like when one tire goes flat. Ask for a 'spare tire kit' if you need tools to change it.
mechanic
A mechanic is a person who fixes cars and vehicles. Use this word when asking for recommendations on who can repair your car nearby.
directions
Directions are instructions telling you how to go somewhere, like left or right turns. Ask for directions when you need to find a place like a repair shop.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Excuse me, I just pulled in and noticed my front right tire is completely flat.
This is a polite way to start a conversation and describe a car problem clearly. Use it when approaching someone for help at a gas station; 'pulled in' means arrived by car, and 'noticed' shows you observed the issue.
Do you guys have a repair service here, or can you just help me inflate it?
This sentence asks for help with options, using 'or' to give alternatives. It's useful for service situations; 'you guys' is informal for 'you people' in American English, and 'inflate it' refers to adding air to the tire.
Let me take a look.
This is a helpful response when someone asks for assistance, meaning 'I'll check it.' Use it to offer to inspect something; it's simple and shows you're willing to help without committing to a full fix.
We don't do full tire repairs like patching or changing, but we do have an air pump you can use.
This explains what services are not available but offers an alternative with 'but.' It's practical for customer service; 'patching' means fixing a hole, and 'changing' means replacing the tire—use this to politely set limits.
Any chance you have a spare tire kit or know a good local mechanic who could help me out?
This politely asks about availability using 'any chance,' which softens the request. It's great for seeking recommendations; 'help me out' is a common phrase meaning 'assist me,' useful in everyday problem-solving.
There's a tire shop about two blocks down Main Street, on the left.
This gives clear directions using location words like 'down,' 'blocks,' and 'on the left.' Use it when helping someone find a place; 'about two blocks' means approximately a short distance, common in giving American street directions.
Is the air pump free to use?
This is a direct question about cost, using 'free to use' for no charge. Ask this before using services at gas stations or stores; it's a simple yes/no question structure that's very practical for travelers.
You're welcome. Drive safe!
This is a polite reply to thanks, with 'drive safe' as a friendly goodbye for drivers. Use it to end conversations positively; 'you're welcome' responds to gratitude, and the phrase shows care for safety.