The cost to fix a flat tire at a shop is $25–$75 in AAA’s published guide. Discount Tire offers free repairs for qualifying punctures. A technician needs to inspect the tire from the inside to confirm whether it can be repaired safely.
Cost to Fix a Flat Tire by Service
| Service | Price reference | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Shop puncture repair | AAA’s guide: $25–$75 | Ask if dismounting, the combination repair, remounting, balancing and taxes are included. |
| Free puncture repair | Discount Tire’s policy | The puncture must qualify. Confirm availability and how the shop handles replacement if the tire fails inspection. |
| Mobile repair or tow | Request a local quote | Check the call-out or towing charge, distance and whether the repair is included. See the mobile tire repair guide. |
| Tire replacement | AAA’s guide: $150–$400 or more as a broad reference | Quote the exact tire size, type, installation, any disposal fee and applicable road-hazard coverage. |
If pressure drops without a visible puncture, the cause might be the valve, the tire bead or the wheel. Have a shop identify the leak before paying for a patch or a tire.
Which Punctures Can Be Repaired?
The U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association limits eligible passenger and light-truck puncture repairs to the permitted tread area and holes no greater than 1/4 inch (6 mm) across. A trained technician removes the tire and checks for internal damage, prior improper repairs and any restrictions from the tire maker.
A proper repair fills the puncture channel and seals the inner liner with a patch. Either a standalone external plug or an internal patch alone leaves part of the job unfinished. See the tire plug and professional repair cost guide for a closer look at that distinction.
When a Flat Tire Needs Replacement
Sidewall or shoulder punctures, damaged belts, bulges and signs that the tire was driven flat can make a tire ineligible. If the tire or wheel is visibly damaged or losing air quickly, pull over safely. Follow the vehicle manual for the spare or call roadside assistance. If the cause is wheel damage, compare the separate rim repair and replacement costs.
Ask What the Quote Includes
- Describe where and when the tire lost pressure and how far the vehicle was driven on it.
- Ask whether the shop will inspect the inside of the tire and use a combination repair if eligible.
- Ask for the installed total and whether a store policy or road-hazard plan covers the repair. Confirm any call-out fee if you need mobile service.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to fix a flat tire?
AAA lists $25 to $75 for professional repair. Some shops, including Discount Tire, offer free service for qualifying punctures. Confirm the price and eligibility locally.
Can a sidewall puncture be repaired?
No. The industry puncture repair guidance limits repair to the allowed tread area. A sidewall or shoulder puncture requires taking the tire out of service.
Is a tire plug a complete repair?
A standalone external plug is not a complete professional repair. A qualified technician removes the tire, inspects it, fills the injury channel and seals the inner liner.
Can a slow leak come from the rim?
Yes. A damaged rim, bead seal or valve can cause a slow leak. Ask the shop to find the actual source before replacing or repairing a part.
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