How to Fix a Flat With a Tire Inflator
There are situations in which a flat tire may occur while on the road, and no spare tire is on hand. In these situations, with the proper tools, a tire can be inflated so that you can drive to the nearest service station to get a proper repair. Air compressors can be purchased for under $20 in most automotive retail stores. You will need to plug the leak, so using a temporary tire sealant/inflator is also advised. These are also available at auto parts stores. Keep one in the trunk of your car for this type of emergency.
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Instructions
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Twist off the valve stem cap counterclockwise until is it off of the valve stem.
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There are several kinds of temporary sealant. Some will partially inflate the tire--some will not. Empty the can of sealant into the tire, following the directions on the can or bottle.
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Plug the air compressor's power source into the car's auxiliary power unit. Connect the air compressor's hose to the valve stem.
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Turn the car on to power the air compressor. Fill the tire to the maximum fill point. The fill point, measured in PSI or pounds per square inch is normally stated on the tire itself, inside of drivers side door and in the owner's manual.
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Turn off the air compressor once the tire is filled. Twist the valve stem cap clockwise until it is snug on the valve stem. Drive to the nearest service station to get the tire checked and repaired or replaced.
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Tips & Warnings
This type of repair is only temporary. Do not drive any farther than necessary on a tire repaired this way.
This method will only (temporarily) fix a tire with a small puncture. A tire with a large puncture or blowout will have to be changed on the spot. Keep a properly inflated spare tire and a jack in the car for these types of emergencies.
