I have a flat tire on the road — what now?
If a tire goes flat while driving: grip the wheel firmly, do not brake hard, let the car slow gradually, then pull onto the hard shoulder and switch on your hazards. If you have no spare or the spot isn't safe to change it, open the Wire app and request help — nearby drivers send quotes and some change the tire where you are.
Step by step
Hold the wheel, don't slam the brakes
Two hands on the wheel, ease off the accelerator, and let the car slow before braking gently.
Pull onto the shoulder and put hazards on
Choose flat ground away from bends, and switch on the warning lights before you get out.
Judge whether it's safe to change
Do not change a tire on a fast lane, on a slope, or on soft sand — the jack is more dangerous than the wait.
Fit the spare if it's safe
Loosen the nuts before lifting, jack from the correct lift point, and tighten the nuts in a crosswise pattern.
Or request help on Wire
Open Wire, set your location, and write "flat tire" in the request. Nearby drivers reply — some fit the spare on site, others tow you to the nearest tire shop.
Things to watch
- A space-saver spare is usually limited to 80 km/h and a short distance — drive straight to a tire shop.
- Never keep driving on a flat; you destroy the rim and multiply the cost.
- Summer asphalt raises tire pressure — check pressure cold, not after a long drive.
- If more than one tire blew or the rim is damaged, you need a tow, not a tire change.
Common questions
Can someone change my tire where I am?
Yes. Write "flat tire" in your Wire request. Nearby drivers read the description before quoting, so one can come and fit your spare at your location instead of towing the whole car to a workshop.
When do I need a tow instead of a tire change?
You need a tow if you have no spare, more than one tire is damaged, the rim is bent, or you are stopped somewhere dangerous such as a fast lane or a blind bend where approaching traffic cannot see you.
How far can I drive on a space-saver spare?
A temporary spare is built for a short distance at no more than about 80 km/h. Drive directly to the nearest tire shop; do not treat it as a normal tire and do not use it for intercity trips.
What to do if…
Need a tow right now?
Request a tow