How to Fix a Flat Tire

No matter how well you take care of your tires, their lifespan can be cut short by unpredictable road conditions. When it comes to fixing a flat, you’ve got options. Let’s go over a couple of temporary solutions that will keep you moving until you can get it assessed by a professional.

An important note before we start: these emergency solutions are for tread punctures only. Sidewall or shoulder damage cannot be repaired with these methods. In these cases, call for roadside assistance so you can get your tire replaced.

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Tire Tools

For an emergency tire repair job, you need the right tools. Two items you should have in your trunk for this kind of situation are an air compressor and a pressure gauge.

Air Compressor

If you’re using a tire repair kit, you’ll need an air compressor to inflate the tire once you’ve dealt with the puncture. With Fix-a-Flat, you often don’t need an air compressor, but if your tire has lost a lot of air, it could be useful to have a backup supply.

A portable, 12-volt air compressor is all you need. Not only is this perfect for your tires, but it can also inflate sporting equipment and toys.

Air Compressor

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Tire Air Pressure Gauge

Whichever tire repair method you use, you’ll need a pressure gauge. After inflating your tire, use a gauge to check the pressure. Since they’re so light and compact, you can keep multiple in your car.

Even if your car has built-in pressure sensors, it’s best to keep a pressure gauge in your trunk. These sensors can fail and need to be recalibrated every time you have your tires rotated or replaced, so you can’t rely on them to always be accurate.

Tire Air Pressure Gauge

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Tire Repair Kits

Tire repair kits have long been the go-to solution for punctured tires. They can repair holes up to 35.6 mm (1.4 in) in diameter for up to two years, giving you plenty of time to drive to the nearest NAPA AUTOPRO service centre for a proper fix.

Follow these steps to repair your flat with a tire repair kit:

  1. Lift your vehicle with a scissor jack and jack stands.
  2. Remove the wheel.
  3. Remove the object that caused the puncture.
  4. Use the reaming tool to clean the hole.
  5. Thread a plug through the eye of the insertion needle.
  6. Coat the plug with rubber cement.
  7. Push the plug through the hole, leaving some of it sticking out of the tread.
  8. Quickly pull out the insertion needle.
  9. Cut off any excess from the plug with a razor.
  10. Put the wheel back on the car.
  11. Use an air compressor to pump the tire to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure (indicated on the inside of the driver’s side door).
  12. Lower the vehicle.

Check your kit for any other instructions. Keep in mind that most tire repair kits won’t come with an air compressor.

 

 

The Original Fix-a-Flat

Another quick solution to your flat tire is the original Fix-a-Flat. This is also known as a “spare tire in a can” and contains a sealant that acts as a tire patch and compressed air. You can use it on holes up to 6.35 mm (0.25 in) wide. Fix-a-Flat is ideal when it’s not safe to remove the wheel from the car.

Follow these steps to repair your tire with Fix-a-Flat:

  • Line up your car so the puncture is in the 6 o’clock position (closest to the ground).
  • Shake the can vigorously for 30 seconds.
  • Take off the cap and unwind the hose attached to the can.
  • Screw the hose clockwise onto the tire valve.
  • Hold the can upright and press the button firmly.
  • The tire will immediately inflate.
  • Once you no longer see the product moving through the hose, let go of the button and check that the tire rim is off the ground.
  • Unscrew the hose from the tire valve.
  • Drive a short distance to allow the tire pressure to increase and the sealant to spread throughout the tire.

Have the tire repaired by a professional as soon as possible (no more than three days after using the product).

Fix-A-Flat-Standard Tire

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Other Tips

To handle other roadside emergencies, keep an emergency kit in your trunk at all times.

If you have any questions about how to fix a flat tire or what you should keep in your vehicle in case of tire trouble, ask an expert at your local NAPA Auto Parts store.

7 Replies to “How to Fix a Flat Tire”

  1. Thomas Long says:

    Thanks for sharing this helpful article. I really appreciate your work. In life, if you driving on a flat tire, then experience the scary punctured tire. You may be on your own or someone else’s vehicle, but make no mistake: It’s not a good thing.

  2. Eve Mitchell says:

    It’s good to know that you’ll need to take the tire to a repair shop if the sidewall is damaged. I would really like to take my car to a mechanic this week. It has two flat tires, but I can’t figure out what the issue is with them. https://i-5trucktrailerrepair.com/castle-rock-exits-48-49-52/

  3. jacksoncarlos says:

    I value the comprehensive information you provide. Keep on sharing. You might look at How to Fix a Flat Tire. Even the worst crew can provide you with the best transportation option.

  4. Thomas Cook says:

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  7. Jeremy Keller says:

    You guys nailed it with this informative guide on fixing a flat tire! A lifesaver for drivers like me. The step-by-step instructions and handy tips make tire repair seem less daunting. Now I feel confident enough to handle unexpected flat tires on my own. Thanks for empowering us with this knowledge!

    Jeremy @ Elite Towing

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