What to do when you have a Flat Tire What to do when you have a Flat Tire

When faced with a flat tire consider these options to determine the best solution for your needs and circumstances.

1. Change Tire with a Spare Tire

If your vehicle is equipped with a spare tire this is an immediate solution. Follow our detailed guide to safely change the flat tire. Every vehicle is different, consult your owner's manual for specific guidance and safety precautions tailored to your vehicle's make and model.

2. Utilize Roadside Assistance

Check for Emergency Contact Stickers or Labels: Some vehicles come with these affixed to the driver's side door frame or inside the fuel door. These stickers often provide information on how to contact roadside assistance services.

Check Your Vehicle's Documentation: Roadside assistance information is often included in the owner's manual or provided in a separate booklet. Look information on the services covered, contact information, and any limitations or restrictions.

Check Your Insurance Policy Documentation: If you have auto insurance, check your insurance policy documentation. Some auto insurance policies include roadside assistance as an optional or standard feature. Look for information about what services are covered, how to request assistance, and any associated costs or limitations.

Check Memberships or Automobile Club Benefits: If you are a member of an automobile club or roadside assistance program, such as AAA (American Automobile Association), check your membership documentation. These programs often provide comprehensive roadside assistance coverage, including flat tire services. Look for details on how to request assistance and any membership-specific benefits.

Check Credit Card Benefits: Some credit cards offer roadside assistance as a benefit. Check the terms and conditions of your credit card benefits to see if roadside assistance, including flat tire coverage, is included. Keep in mind that the level of coverage may vary among different credit cards.

  • Be aware of coverage limits of your roadside assistance plan. Some plans may have restrictions on the distance for towing or the number of service calls allowed per year. Understanding these limits ensures you have realistic expectations in emergency situations.

3. Tow truck to a Service Center

  • Towing your vehicle to a repair facility is a prudent option. Be aware of your insurance coverage and towing service options, as some policies include towing services within a certain distance.

4. Mobile Tire Services

  • Some premium roadside assistance plans and other companies offer mobile tire repair and replacement. This is a convenient option for drivers willing to pay a premium and for drivers without a spare in situations where getting to a tire repair shop is not feasible. In this scenario the service sends a technician to your location to repair or replaces the damaged tire on-site.

6. Visit any Belle Tire location or other tire retailer if not near a Belle Tire

  • Belle Tire offers FREE flat tire repair, if the damage is repairable

7. Seek help or accept help offered

This option is usually a last resort and should only be considered when you are in a safe location and feel comfortable in your surroundings but lack the tools or expertise to change the tire. Exercise caution, when uncertain wait for professional assistance.