A flat tire can happen anytime, anywhere, which is why many cars contain a spare tire in hidden storage. But if your car doesn’t have a spare, or you need to get rid of it, how can you stay prepared for a flat? Keep reading to discover a few alternatives to keeping a spare tire in your car, from tire repair kits to roadside assistance.
Tire Repair Kit
Compact tire repair kits are a popular choice for modern drivers. These kits usually include sealant and a small air compressor, letting you fix small punctures and reinflate your tire in minutes without removing the wheel. Their convenience and space-saving design make them ideal for storing in your trunk, eliminating the need for a bulky spare tire.
To use a tire repair kit, first patch the hole in the tire using tire sealant. Then, use the portable air compressor to reinflate the tire. These kits work well for minor punctures in the tread, but they’re only temporary fixes to get you to the nearest repair shop.
Run-Flat Tires
Run-flat tires offer peace of mind and performance. These tires have reinforced sidewalls, allowing you to drive up to 50 miles after losing air pressure. This eliminates the need for a spare tire or repair kit, giving you time to reach a repair shop.
You can find run-flat tires at practically any tire store and from typical tire brands like Michelin and Bridgestone. While they’re slightly more expensive than regular tires, they save trunk space and avoid roadside repairs.
Self-Sealing Tires
Self-sealing tires offer another innovative solution for tire punctures, but they operate differently from run-flat tires. These tires feature a sealant coating that automatically seals small punctures, such as those from nails or screws, as they happen. Unlike run-flat tires, which allow you to drive for a limited distance with little to no air pressure, self-sealing tires maintain air pressure by preventing leaks entirely.
This makes them a great alternative for those who want to avoid frequent tire maintenance but still value the convenience of a puncture-resistant design. However, self-sealing tires are best for smaller punctures and might not address severe damage as effectively as run-flat technology.
Towing Services and Roadside Assistance Apps
One last alternative to keeping a spare tire in your car is to utilize available towing and roadside assistance services to tow your vehicle or fix a flat for you. Services like AAA, Geico Roadside Assistance, or apps like HONK connect you to help with just a few taps on your phone. They offer 24/7 support for flat tires, towing, and other emergencies, reducing the need to carry a spare tire.
For those who want a streamlined solution, this option requires minimal effort. Many apps also include tracking features to monitor arrival times.
Choose the Right Solution for Your Ride
Bulky spare tires are no longer the only option for flat tire emergencies. You have access to many resources and alternatives to keeping a spare tire in your car , from tire repair kits to self-sealing tires. These modern tools save space, enhance convenience, and ensure you’re always prepared for the unexpected.
Recommended reading: Signs Your Tires Need Replacement
