By FZ Abschleppdienst, Korntal-Münchingen. Last updated:
In short
Pull over carefully to the right, switch on your hazard lights, put on your hi-vis vest and set up the warning triangle. Then check whether you have a spare wheel, space-saver or tyre repair kit in the car. On the motorway, or if in doubt, it is better to call for help.
Signs of a flat tyre
These signs point to a damaged tyre:
- The car pulls to one side
- The steering wheel vibrates or feels vague
- You hear a rumbling or a regular thumping
- The tyre pressure warning comes on
Stop safely straight away
Do not brake sharply, hold the steering wheel firmly and let the car roll to a stop as far to the right as possible. Hazard lights on, hi-vis vest on, set up the warning triangle. On the motorway, everyone goes behind the crash barrier.
Spare wheel, space-saver, repair kit or run-flat tyres?
What you have in the car decides what happens next:
- Spare wheel: a full-size replacement, so you can drive on as normal
- Space-saver: only for short distances and at limited speed, with the maximum speed usually shown on the wheel
- Repair kit with sealant: only helps with small holes in the tread, not with damage to the sidewall
- Run-flat tyres: you can drive on for a limited distance, with the distance and speed set by the manufacturer
When it is better to call for help
Call a breakdown service if:
- you are on the motorway or in a spot with poor visibility
- the sidewall of the tyre is damaged or the tyre has come off the rim
- there is no spare wheel in the car
- the rim or suspension is damaged
How we help
We fit your spare wheel, repair the tyre if the damage allows, or take your vehicle to the garage.