When you have a flat tire, it can be extremely interruptive to your day. It happens when you least expect it, and can cost you a pretty penny. It always seems to happen when you least expect it.

There is always the option of your spare tire, but not everyone has it, especially if you bought your vehicle from a private seller. Your next best bet is to call a tow truck and spend extra money to get your car to a mechanic. Right?

Wrong, there is a third way, but it has become the taboo option that comes with some possible bad repercussions. It is called Fix-A-Flat, and while it seems tempting to use, it would be more valuable to understand the benefits and pitfalls of this product before you make a decision.

What is Fix-A-Flat?

Fix-a-flat is a product that is meant to assist you when you are in need of a quick fix for your tire. It is meant to help with slightly deflated tires, or tires with a small leak. It is a canister that is filled with a mix of chemicals that harden upon spray.

The directions to use it are pretty simple. You are required to have your tire with the hole on the bottom. This way the serum that is being sprayed into your tire is staying on the bottom, and not going anywhere else.

Spray the entire bottle into the tire and let it sit for a second. There are some more specific directions located on the can, so it is recommended to read it before use. However, the main points are hole should be located on the bottom of the tire and spray.

However, there are some benefits and some disadvantages when it comes to using fix-a-flat. Let’s look into both sides of this product and see if it is truly worth spending the money to buy it.

What are the Benefits of Fix-A-Flat?

Fix-a-flat is something that can help you when you are in a pinch and need a quick fix. Simply keep it in your vehicle and it will be there when you need it. However, you may want to make sure that you keep it temperature controlled so it does not combust.

While this item does not mean you can drive with your tire for a prolonged period of time, it is meant to get you to the closest mechanic. This way, you are then able to get your tire fixed without a lot of issues.

What are the Downfalls of Fix-A-Flat?

Fix a Flat has a history of flammability in hot temperatures. So on a hot day, this may not be the best option to use. The pressure mixed with the heat could cause a combustion. Although resources say that this was the last formula. 

When you speak to a mechanic about fix-a-flat, they will tell you how many of them refuse to work with tires that have had this done. The reason varies, but the most common response is that the hardening substance ruins the rims of the tires.

When the substance is sprayed into your tire, it is not entirely precise. It sprays everywhere as a liquid, and then hardens after a few minutes. This substance, once it hardens, creates massive amounts of damage to the wheel rim on the inside. 

Most times this rim needs to be completely replaced. If it is not, then there is a likely probability that the rim of your vehicle has taken a lot of damage. It is probably for the best that you don’t accept your rim back if you use this stuff.

Fourth Option?

DriveSmart wants to make sure that you know about a fourth option that you have. Get a quote with us and learn how you can protect your vehicle from breakdowns and other things! 

DriveSmart offers Tow Assistance, as well as Rental and Roadside assistance. We also offer Trip Interruption, so that if there is something else wrong with your car, you won’t have to worry about breaking down in the middle of your vacation. 

Get a quote or talk to one of our reliable and trustworthy warranty specialists who will help you find the extended warranty that is best for you. Check it out, you never know when you will need the help until it happens!

Blog by Brooke Lazar