A flat tire on a busy road is stressful and can be dangerous. Safety comes first, and sometimes the best choice is not to change it yourself.

Step 1: Get off the road

Hold the wheel firmly, ease off the gas and do not brake hard. Steer to a safe spot. Turn on your hazard lights. Driving a short way on a flat damages the tire and wheel, but staying in a travel lane is worse.

Step 2: Judge the spot

  • Is the ground flat and firm?
  • Is there room to work away from traffic?
  • Is the shoulder wide enough?

If the answer is no, do not change the tire. Stay safe and call for help.

Step 3: Stay safe

  • Turn on hazard lights and stay away from the road side of the car.
  • If the car is close to traffic, wait outside behind a barrier or far from the road.
  • Keep your phone with you.

If you decide to change it

  1. Put the car in park and set the parking brake.
  2. Take out the spare, jack and wrench.
  3. Loosen the lug nuts slightly before lifting.
  4. Place the jack at the correct lifting point and raise the car.
  5. Remove the nuts and the flat, put on the spare, and tighten the nuts by hand.
  6. Lower the car and tighten the nuts in a star pattern.

Never go under a car held by a jack.

Spare tire limits

Many spares are temporary. They have a lower speed limit and distance. Check the sidewall or the manual, and get the full tire repaired or replaced soon.

When to call for help

Call for help if the spot is unsafe, if you do not have a spare or tools, if the lug nuts are stuck or if you are not sure how to do it. A professional can change the tire or tow the car.

Quick checklist

  • Hazard lights, safe spot.
  • Do not change on a slope or soft ground.
  • Use the correct jack point.
  • Get the tire fixed soon.

When it is better to call than to change it

If you are on a busy road with a narrow shoulder, on a slope, on soft ground, in the dark or in bad weather, changing a tire is risky. A professional has the right tools, equipment and safety gear to do it safely.

Checking the spare before you need it

Many people find out their spare is flat only when they need it. Check the spare pressure every few months, make sure the jack and wrench are in the car and know where the locking lug nut key is if you have one.

Frequently asked questions

Can I drive a short distance on a flat tire?

Avoid it. Driving on a flat can ruin the tire and damage the wheel. If you must move a few feet to be safe, go slowly.

How fast can I drive on a spare?

Many temporary spares have a lower speed limit. Check the sidewall or the manual.

Should I fix or replace the flat tire?

Some punctures can be repaired, but sidewall damage means the tire must be replaced.

Related services

Need help?

Auto Flexible Roadside Assistance, 10426 SW 186th Terrace, Cutler Bay, FL 33157. Call (305) 564-8795 for a free estimate.