Flat Tire on a Rental Car? Here's What to Do

The best time to spot a flat tire is before you start driving. But if you’re already on the road and feel a sudden pull or thump, stay calm and follow these steps:

1. Ease off the gas and avoid braking suddenly to keep control of the car.
2. Hold the steering wheel firmly and guide the car to the side of the road.
3. Put the vehicle in park and turn on your hazard lights once stopped.
4. Call your rental car company as soon as you’re in a safe location. Most rental companies have roadside assistance partners who can send help.
5. Wait for assistance rather than attempting your own repair. Many rental agreements prohibit renters from changing tires or performing repairs themselves.

Depending on the situation, the tire may be repaired on site, or the vehicle may be towed to a nearby service location.

In most cases, renters are responsible for damage that occurs while the rental car is in their possession, including a flat tire. However, there are exceptions:

• If the tire was damaged before you left the rental lot, you may not be responsible. Always inspect and photograph the vehicle (including all tires) before driving away.
• Some rental car companies offer roadside assistance packages at booking. These may cover certain costs related to tire repair or replacement.
• If you purchased a travel insurance plan with Rental Vehicle Damage Coverage, you have 24/7 access to our assistance services team who can help coordinate roadside assistance, though you may still be responsible for the costs.

It’s important to read your rental agreement carefully to understand what is and isn’t your responsibility.

While budget rental companies may advertise lower prices, always review the fine print. Check for:

• Deposit requirements
• Fuel policy
• Additional driver fees
• Age restrictions or fees
• Mileage limitations
• Damage policy
• Restrictions on state and country borders
• Whether insurance coverage offered is primary or secondary

If you rent from a budget company, verify the deductible and coverage level for flat tire incidents before finalizing your reservation.

If you discover a flat tire on your rental car, follow company policy rather than trying to fix it yourself. Attempting to repair the tire on your own could violate the rental agreement and lead to additional costs.

Contact the rental company immediately to arrange assistance. Driving on a flat tire can cause significant damage to the rim and suspension - which you could be responsible for paying.

After a flat tire occurs:

• Notify the rental car company right away.
• Take photos of the damage and surrounding area.
• If another vehicle was involved, collect contact and insurance details and file a police report if necessary.
• Save all receipts, reports and communications to submit with any insurance claim.

Documentation helps ensure that you’re properly reimbursed for covered expenses.

While accidents happen, there are ways to reduce your risk of a flat tire:

• Check tire pressure regularly.
• Avoid potholes, debris and curbs.
• Don’t overload the vehicle.
• Ask when the tires were last replaced or rotated before leaving the lot.

Staying alert and proactive can help you avoid flat tire issues and travel with greater peace of mind.