Nothing can derail a road trip or a daily commute to work faster than a flat tire. Being prepared for emergency flat tires is one of the top ways to stay safe on the road, in any weather or in any season.
If you’re wondering what to do if you get a flat tire, don’t worry—we outline 3 items to keep in your roadside emergency kit that can help repair a flat tire fast. It is important to be able to get off the road safely, call for help, and repair your vehicle in a safe location. These three emergency repair kit items will help you on your road trips and to stay safe behind the wheel.
Why Tire Maintenance is Important in Avoiding Flat Tires
As we head into Memorial Day Weekend, Summer is ahead as the peak season for road travel. There are more cars on the road, increased roadside construction, and a higher likelihood of encountering road hazards. Hot weather can significantly affect your tires and increase the chances of a blowout, just like the winter and cold air can cause hazards for holiday travel for worn down tires.
By staying on top of tire maintenance and annual vehicle inspections, you can help reduce your chance of unexpected flat tires on the road. You want to inspect your tread, have regular tire rotations, and monitor your tire pressure at all times.
However, sometimes tire maintenance services aren’t enough and you need to have an emergency roadside kit available in your car for flat tires.
What to Have in Your Roadside Kit for Emergency Tire Repair
1) Spare Tire
A spare tire is your first line of defense against a flat. There are different types of spare tires, including full-size spares, compact spares, and temporary spares (donuts). Full-size spares are identical to the regular tires on your vehicle and provide the best performance, but your vehicle may not have the room to store a full size spare tire.
Compact spares are smaller and lighter; these are easier to store but are only meant for short distances, so you will need to locate a repair shop shortly after replacing your tire. Temporary spares, known as donuts, are the most compact spare tire and are intended to get you to the closet repair shop and nowhere else.
Remember! Regularly inspect your spare tire for proper inflation and any signs of damage. Check that it has the correct pressure as indicated in your vehicle’s manual. Store your spare tire in a cool, dry place and make sure it’s easily accessible in your vehicle.
2) Tire Repair Kit
A tire repair kit can be a lifesaver when you encounter a minor puncture or don’t have a spare tire. A tire repair kit is a must have in your emergency roadside kit to help fix your tire long enough to get home or to an auto repair shop. These kits are great for a temporary fix, are easy to store, and can be used more than once.
You can buy pre-made tire repair kits for emergency flat tire fixes or you can build your own. The important thing is to stock your emergency roadside kit with all the parts you need to fix an emergency flat tire without a spare.
Tire Repair Kit:
Sealant: To temporarily seal punctures
Plugging Tools: To insert plugs into the puncture
Instructions: Detailed steps for using the kit
3) Portable Air Compressor
Portable air compressors can help to re-inflate tires after small punctures or minor damage. Reinflating a flat tire is perfect when you have a slow leak or fall behind on tire pressure maintenance. Portable air compressors are the best solution to fixing an emergency flat tire quickly and getting back on the road.
When shopping for a portable air compressor for your emergency roadside kit, look for one that is compact and easy to store. Ensure the power source operates off of your car’s 12V outlet. Keep a pressure gauge in your car at all times to monitor your tire pressure to make sure you have not under or over inflated your tires.
Compact air compressors are so simple, anyone can use them. Definitely add them to your roadside kit for emergency flat tires as soon as possible and prevent unsafe breakdowns.
Common Causes of Tire Damage
To help avoid unexpected flat tires on the road, be on the lookout for common causes of tire damage and emergency flat tires. Road hazards pose a serious risk, like potholes and unexpected debris. Rough terrain hit at high speeds can cause blowouts or other risks. Make it a habit to inspect your tires after driving by construction zones.
If you’re traveling with luggage or other items, check your vehicle’s load capacity. Learn how to distribute weight evenly in your vehicle to avoid overloading your car and causing stress over one tire or another. At the end of the day, stay on top of regular tire maintenance for the best flat tire protection.
What to Do if You Get a Blowout on the Highway
Stay calm and hold the steering wheel firmly if you experience an unexpected tire blowout. Do not slam on the brakes, but gradually slow down and pull over to a safe area. Let the car decelerate naturally and use the brakes gently once you’re under control. Put on your hazard lights as soon as is safe to do so to alert others to the situation.
You want to assess the tire damage and if safe to do so, replace or repair your repair flat tire. In emergency cases, you may need to call for roadside assistance and a tow. Put out flares or other items to alert drives your car is disabled and stay away from the area where cars may pass at high speeds or with low visibility. Do not attempt to drive on a flat tire.
Drive Safe This Summer with Emergency Flat Tire Repair Tips and a Roadside Kit
Preparing for a summer road trip involves more than just planning your destination. Ensuring you have the essential items for emergency tire repair – a spare tire, a tire repair kit, and a portable air compressor – can save you from unexpected setbacks.
Regular tire maintenance, understanding how to handle tire issues, and knowing when to call for help are all part of being a responsible and prepared traveler. Stay safe, and enjoy your journey!
Stay ahead of the curve this summer with Hoffmaster’s Auto Care. Schedule a tire check-up today and hit the road with confidence!
Flat Tire FAQs
What should I do if I don’t have a spare tire?
If you don’t have a spare tire, always carry a reliable tire repair kit and a portable air compressor. Consider having a roadside assistance plan for emergencies and a spare battery to charge your phone.
How often should I check my tire pressure?
Check your tire pressure at least once a month and before any long trips. This helps maintain performance and safety.
Can I use a tire repair kit on all types of tires?
Tire repair kits are generally designed for minor punctures on tubeless tires. They might not be suitable for large gashes or sidewall damage.
How long does a portable air compressor take to inflate a tire?
The time can vary based on the compressor’s power and the tire’s size, but it typically takes around 5-10 minutes to inflate a standard car tire.
Hoffmaster's Auto Care
Our mission at Hoffmaster’s Auto Care is to provide our customers with the highest level of car repair service and expertise, delivered with honesty, integrity, and a commitment to excellence. Hoffmaster’s Auto Care in Silver Spring, MD has been in business for more than 40 years. All our technicians are ASE certified. You can rely on our experience and knowledge for high-quality auto repair and maintenance services.
