Flat Tire? What To Do With Without a Spare Tire

No Spare Tire No Problem

Jose Luis Stephens/Getty Images No spare time fixes If you recently, you might have been bewildered by the lack of a spare tire. Over the past 10 years, the inclusion of full-size spare tires in new vehicles has decreased nearly 50 percent. Here's how to make sure a flat doesn't leave you stranded. AARP Membership:

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Time was, most Americans could drive a "four on the floor." Now, not so much <4% Sales of new vehicles with a manual transmission in the U.S. 43% Decline in number of vehicles offered with a manual transmission option in the U.S. since 2006 47% Vehicles manufactured with a manual transmission globally Upgrade to a run-flat tire Run-flats work like standard tires but will survive a puncture for a short period and at a reduced speed. You can find them from about $80 to more than $600 apiece, depending on the tire you need. Keep a tire repair kit in your car Repair kits, which patch a small hole to keep a tire inflated, are found more commonly in cars lacking a spare. A can of sealer costs around $10, and full kits, which have an air compressor to inflate the tire, cost $20 to $80. Make sure you have roadside assistance If this isn't included in your warranty or insurance, you can sign up for it through AAA. .

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