Jack Williams

Five Things to Know About Fixing Your Flat With A Can

Many motorists guard themselves against the risk of a flat tire by keeping a can of pressurized tire sealant, such as "Fix-A-Flat," in their vehicle. Available for as little as $5.00, these products can be an important part of a driver's emergency toolkit, but they have limitations that are important to keep in mind.

1. A tire sealant doesn't repair your tire.Used properly, a canned tire sealant is only a temporary fix meant to allow you to drive your vehicle to a repair shop, where a car care professional can determine whether the tire needs replacement or can be successfully patched. Even a properly used sealant might provide you with as little as five miles of safe driving.

2. Using tire sealant could void your tire's warranty.Check your tire's warranty before you buy or use a can of sealant on your tire.

3. If you have a larger vehicle, you need more sealant.The standard size of canned tire sealant is generally intended for typical passenger cars. Trucks, SUVs, and other vehicles with larger tires will need more. Look for the larger sized cans of sealant at the auto parts store.

4. If your tire has a TPMS sensor inside it, sealant could destroy it.Tires on some higher end vehicles have tire pressure management system (TPMS) sensors mounted inside the tire cavity. These sensors cost $100 or more to replace and can be permanently ruined through exposure to tire sealant.

5. Put out your cigarette.Many tire sealants and their fumes are extremely flammable. Save the smoke until after you're finished.