If your tire goes flat, stay calm and act with safety in mind. In most cases you can either change to a spare or call for roadside assistance, but the first priority is getting yourself and passengers out of danger and to a secure location.
Immediate safety actions
Take these quick steps to reduce risk before you begin any repair or replacement work.
- Safely steer the vehicle to a stable location away from traffic, such as the shoulder or a safe turnout.
- Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
- Apply the parking brake and, if you have them, place wheel chocks to prevent rolling.
- If you must stop on a highway or busy road, stay in the vehicle with your seat belt on and wait for help if it’s not safe to exit.
- Check your surroundings for ongoing traffic and call for roadside assistance if you’re unsure about changing the tire yourself.
Following these safety steps helps protect you and others while you assess your options for repair or replacement.
Assess whether you can replace the tire yourself
If you have a spare and the necessary tools, you may be able to swap the tire on site. Gather the standard items listed in your owner's manual and follow the steps below.
- Loosen the lug nuts a few turns while the vehicle is still on the ground, using a lug wrench.
- Position the jack at the vehicle’s designated jacking point as described in the manual and raise the car high enough to clear the wheel.
- Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the flat tire.
- Mount the spare tire onto the hub, hand-tighten the lug nuts, then lower the vehicle to the ground.
- Tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to the manufacturer’s specified torque, then replace the wheel cover if applicable.
- Check the spare tire’s pressure and ensure it is suitable for driving; most donuts have a speed and distance limit printed on the tire.
After replacing the tire, drive cautiously to a service center to have the original tire repaired or replaced and to ensure all fasteners are properly torqued.
What to do if you can't replace the tire or have no spare
If you don’t have a spare, or changing a tire isn’t safe in your location, follow these options to get you to safety or a repair shop.
- Call roadside assistance or your insurer for a tow or mobile tire service. Many plans cover tire changes or towing.
- If you have run-flat tires and the vehicle’s manual supports it, you may be able to drive to a nearby shop within the recommended limits; otherwise, stop as soon as it’s safe.
- Use a temporary tire sealant kit if you have one for a small puncture; this is a temporary fix and should be followed by professional repair or replacement as soon as possible.
- Avoid driving long distances on a flat or severely damaged tire; reduce speed and avoid rough roads until you reach a repair facility.
These options help ensure you reach a safe location and receive appropriate tire service without risking further damage to your vehicle or yourself.
Aftercare and inspection
Once the tire situation is resolved, take these follow-up steps to ensure ongoing safety and reliability.
- Inspect all tires for wear, damage, and proper inflation, including the spare if you have one.
- Ensure lug nuts are properly torqued to the vehicle’s specifications after any wheel removal or replacement.
- Have the punctured tire repaired or replaced and confirm your spare’s condition before you resume normal driving.
Regular checks and timely repairs help prevent future flats and keep you ready for unexpected road conditions.
Special cases and additional tips
Run-flat tires
Run-flat tires are designed to be driven for a limited distance after a puncture. Always consult your vehicle’s manual for the exact limits and recommended actions, as they vary by model.
Portable air compressors and tire sealants
Portable air compressors can reinflate a partially flat tire to allow you to reach a service location, while tire sealants can seal small punctures temporarily. Neither option substitutes for a proper tire repair or replacement, and you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions and your vehicle’s guidelines.
Summary
Key takeaways: prioritize safety, know whether you can replace the tire with a spare, use the correct jacking technique and torque, and don’t hesitate to call roadside assistance if changing a tire isn’t safe or you lack the proper equipment. After the incident, have the damaged tire repaired and ensure your spare is ready for future use.