What do I do if I have a flat tire and no spare?
When you discover a flat tire and you don’t have a spare, the safest and fastest path is to stop in a safe location, contact roadside assistance or a mobile tire service, and arrange a tow to a repair shop. If you have a tire sealant kit and the puncture is minor, you may seal the hole to reach help, but avoid driving long distances on a compromised tire.
Immediate safety steps
Before you attempt any fix or call for assistance, prioritize safety and reduce risk from traffic and weather conditions.
- Move your vehicle to a safe, level area away from traffic if possible, such as a shoulder or parking lot.
- Turn on your hazard lights to make the vehicle more visible to other drivers.
- Place warning devices (like reflective triangles or flares) at the recommended distance behind your car to alert approaching traffic.
- Assess whether you can exit the vehicle safely; if you’re on a busy road, stay inside with seatbelts fastened and wait for help unless you can reach a safer area.
- If you’re with others, designate someone to assist and stay in communication with emergency or roadside services.
- If available, wear a high-visibility vest when you need to leave the car to check tire or surroundings.
Once you’re in a safe location and out of immediate danger, contact your roadside assistance, insurer, automaker, or a local tow service to arrange help. They can guide you on next steps and provide a time estimate.
Options when you have no spare
These options explain practical paths to get back on the road without an on-vehicle spare, including professional services and temporary fixes.
- Call a roadside assistance provider or your insurer’s program, your carmaker’s assistance line, or a reputable third-party service. Share your location, vehicle details, and the nature of the tire issue, and request either on-site repair or a tow to a tire shop.
- Ask about on-site tire repair or patching services. Many providers can patch or plug a punctured tire at your location or tow you to the nearest repair facility if repair isn’t possible on the spot.
- If you have a tire sealant kit and the puncture is minor, you may apply the sealant and reinflate the tire to reach a shop. This is typically a temporary measure and not a long-term fix; avoid sealant for sidewall damage or large holes, and follow the product’s instructions.
- If the tire cannot be safely repaired at your location, arrange a tow to a tire shop or dealership. Compare costs and transit time with your service provider, and consider the vehicle’s value and insurance coverage.
Availability and pricing vary by region and provider. In many cases, you’ll receive a tow to a nearby tire shop, where a technician can assess repair options and replace or repair the tire as needed.
Temporary repairs and limitations
Temporary fixes can help you reach a repair facility, but they do not replace a professional inspection and replacement if needed. Some tires cannot be safely repaired after certain damage.
Using tire sealant
Tire sealants can seal small punctures in the tread and allow you to drive short distances to a shop, but they are not a substitute for professional repair. Do not use sealant on sidewall damage or large punctures, and follow the product directions exactly.
- Sealant is typically suitable only for small tread punctures; large holes or damaged sidewalls require a professional repair or tire replacement.
- After applying sealant, drive cautiously and get to a repair facility as soon as possible for a proper assessment.
- Inspect the tire after use and replace or repair the tire promptly; sealant is a temporary measure.
Sealant should be viewed as a stopgap to reach professional service, not a lasting solution.
Tire plugs and patches
Tire plugs or patches can repair punctures in the tread area and extend the life of the tire, but they require professional evaluation to confirm safety for continued use.
- Plugs/patches are generally appropriate for small tread holes and should be inspected by a tire technician soon after the repair.
- Sidewall damage or large cuts usually means the tire must be replaced rather than repaired.
Temporary plugging is intended to buy time until you can reach a shop; it is not guaranteed to be a permanent fix.
Note on run-flat tires: If your vehicle uses run-flat tires, you may be able to drive a short distance to a repair facility at reduced speeds, but always check your owner’s manual and follow manufacturer guidance. When in doubt, opt for towing to ensure safety.
Prevention and gear to carry for future trips
Preparing in advance can reduce stress when a flat happens. Consider these measures to mitigate future cases where you don’t have a spare.
- Carry a roadside assistance plan or ensure your existing plan covers tire service and towing to a repair shop.
- Consider a compact spare or a temporary spare kit if your vehicle supports it, or invest in a mobile tire repair service membership.
- Keep a tire sealant kit and a portable air compressor in your vehicle, along with a basic tool kit, flashlight, and high-visibility safety gear.
- Know your tire’s expected repair options and the typical turnaround times for your preferred shops in your usual driving area.
Proactive preparation can help you make safer, quicker decisions and reduce downtime when a flat occurs without a spare.
Summary
Facing a flat tire without a spare requires prioritizing safety, obtaining professional help, and understanding temporary repair options. Move to safety, contact roadside assistance or a mobile tire service, and arrange a tow or on-site repair as appropriate. If you have a sealant kit or routine run-flat tires, use them only as directed and for short, mechanically safe distances to a repair facility. Plan ahead by carrying a spare or appropriate alternatives, so you’re better prepared for future incidents.
What do I do if I get a flat and don't have a spare?
If the damage is significant or the tire is completely flat, you will need to replace it. However, if the damage is minor, a repair may be possible. If you do not have a spare tire or are uncomfortable changing it, it is best to call for assistance.
How to fix a flat tire with no spare wheel?
The tyre sealant is an adhesive gel that is injected into the punctured tyre via the valve. Sometimes referred to as “tyre-weld” the sealant works by filling the tyre with sticky adhesive and sealing the puncture. The tyre repair kit will contain a cannister of sealant and a compressor to reinflate the tyre.
Will cops help with a flat tire?
No, they do NOT. If you have a flat tire or break down, call a tow truck.
What does roadside assistance do if you don't have a spare tire?
Flat Tire Change
If your vehicle has a flat tire, a service operator will attempt to remove it and install a spare tire (if you don't have a properly inflated spare tire, or if the spare is not safely operable, towing service will be provided per the previously mentioned towing parameters).
