Flat Tire? Here's What to Do (Repair vs. Replace Guide)
Learn what to do when you get a flat tire, how to determine if it can be repaired, and step-by-step instructions for changing to your spare.
Flat Tire? Don't Panic
A flat tire is one of the most common roadside emergencies. Knowing what to do—and what NOT to do—can save you money, keep you safe, and get you back on the road faster.
What to Do Immediately
1. Stay Calm and Get Safe
- Turn on your hazard lights immediately
- Slow down gradually (don't brake hard)
- Pull off the road completely if possible
- Find a flat, stable surface away from traffic
- Set your parking brake
2. Assess Your Options
Do you have:
- A spare tire and jack?
- A tire repair kit?
- Roadside assistance coverage?
- Mobile service you can call?
Can Your Tire Be Repaired?
Not all flat tires need replacement. Here's how to tell:
CAN Be Repaired:
- Punctures in the tread area (center of the tire)
- Holes smaller than 1/4 inch
- Damage from nails, screws, or small objects
- Tire has adequate tread remaining
CANNOT Be Repaired (Must Replace):
- Punctures in the sidewall
- Punctures near the shoulder (edge of tread)
- Large gashes or cuts
- Tire was driven on while flat
- Tire is old or has low tread
- Previous repair too close to new damage
Important: Driving on a flat—even for a short distance—often destroys the tire internally, even if it looks fine outside.
How to Change a Flat Tire
What You'll Need:
- Spare tire (check its pressure regularly!)
- Jack
- Lug wrench
- Wheel wedges (optional but helpful)
- Flashlight (if at night)
- Gloves (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Apply parking brake and place wheel wedges behind the tires (opposite to the flat).
Step 2: Remove the hubcap if present and loosen the lug nuts (turn counterclockwise). Don't remove them yet—just break them loose.
Step 3: Position the jack under the vehicle frame near the flat tire. Check your owner's manual for the correct jack point.
Step 4: Raise the vehicle until the flat tire is about 6 inches off the ground.
Step 5: Remove the lug nuts completely and remove the flat tire.
Step 6: Mount the spare tire and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
Step 7: Lower the vehicle until the tire touches the ground but doesn't bear the full weight.
Step 8: Tighten the lug nuts fully in a star pattern. Lower the vehicle completely and give the nuts a final tightening.
Step 9: Check the spare tire's pressure and drive to get the flat repaired or replaced.
Important Notes About Spare Tires
Full-Size Spare:
- Can be driven normally
- Should be rotated with other tires
Compact Spare (Donut):
- Speed limit: Usually 50 mph maximum
- Distance limit: Usually 50-70 miles maximum
- Not for extended use—get to a tire shop ASAP
Tire Repair Process
A proper tire repair should:
- Remove the tire from the rim
- Inspect inside for hidden damage
- Clean and prep the puncture area
- Apply a combination patch-plug repair
- Reinflate and balance the tire
Cost: $25-$50 typically
Avoid: Plug-only repairs (from the outside) are temporary at best.
Mobile Flat Tire Service in NYC
Stuck in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, or Staten Island? NYC Mobile Auto Assist provides:
- Tire changes (to your spare)
- On-site tire repair when possible
- New tire installation
We come to you—day or night, wherever you are in the five boroughs.
Need Professional Help?
NYC Mobile Auto Assist provides expert mobile mechanic services throughout all five boroughs. We come to you!