We Got a Flat Tire in our Tesla!!

It finally happened, we got a flat tire in our Tesla!!! We had to figure out how to get home in a world with supply chain issues. No tires were available in our size where it happened so we had to figure out how to get a fix so we could get home.
Thank you SO much Les Schwab Tires in Coqille, OR and Christian and Zach for taking care of us. We really appreciate your help and kindness.
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[@iowatesla]

Had the same flat happen to me after 300 miles of having the car. I put in my own plug. 22,000 miles later, the plug is still there and I'm on the same tire and going strong... Great job to your daughter.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

I am more worried they drove on it too long but I am going to check. Yeah, when it happened my first thought (like yours would probably be too) was how can I make a video on this when I am 6 hours away!!! I asked her if she could film it and she said sure. She did a really good job other than the couple of videos that she filmed portrait.

[@cjonesplay1]

Yes. She did great. With the video and the tire. I plug my own tires. In 10 or so years. I haven’t had a problem with a plug. You will probably change the tire in a year or so. You will forget which tire you plugged probably. Good video. Good luck.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Which plug kit do you have? I remember seeing one in a video you did but don't remember which one it was.

[@iowatesla]

@@MiddleAgedTesla There is a link to it in my 20000 Mile Accessory video. $15 from Amazon.

[@dstr1]

@@MiddleAgedTesla they didn't drive on the flat tire too long or the sidewall would have been ruined. I dont think that those tires can be patched from the inside since they would have to remove some of the foam used to protect the tire during a flat and then do the patch. I just bought a wheel and an electric jack and wrench set then keep in my trunk to avoid such situations. Since I live in snow country and want to avoid such situations. Haven't had another flat 2 years+ since. 👌

[@J0j0m10]

Your daughter did an excellent job documenting the flat. 👍👍

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

I know….I just asked her to film it since I wasn’t there to do it and she did a great job!!

[@camrodger5381]

This is a huge advertisement for Les Schwab and their customer service mantra. Every tire shop will profess to having customer service, but only Les Schwab seems to practice it corporate wide. I used to think Discount Tire was wonderful until I had a nightmare experience at their St. Cloud, MN store. Way to go, Les Schwab!👏👏👏

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

I agree and I did not mean it to be an advertisement but I was blown away with their customer service and how they took care of my family.

[@ThatGuy668]

The plug is exactly what tire shops do today to fix a hole caused by a nail so. Therefore, you don'lt need a new tire

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

That’s what it turned out thanks!

[@kordobez3978]

In my shop “ South florida “ Im done with inside patches .. doing only plugs if the customer wants and I do 3-5 plugs a day 😂

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

@kordobez the patch would be a problem as the Tesla tire we have has foam glued to the inside of the tire. Talking to the Les Scwhab guy they are charging customers extra with these tires since it is more work to remove the glue and foam to get to the area and patch it. They plug was a lot easier since it could be done from the outside.

[@kordobez3978]

@@MiddleAgedTesla depends on what tire you have yes it has foam.. but remember “ is just a foam… plug will push thru it …. So if you get a flat in the middle of no were… the plug will save you lol. And is not much job to do a patch afterwards.. I have done lot of them on those tires.. no need to remove the whole foam just a piece big enough for the patch … but some shops try tell you is so much difficult this and that to charge you double. I had run plugs on tire for over a year without any problems

[@jabulaniharvey]

1. tread face puncture = fix with plug or patch, 2.sidewall damage= U R screwed!...avoid sidewall damage, react immediately to pressure warnings

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Yeah, I am going to get a plug kit and keep it with the car….and yes they should have reacted to the low pressure warning sooner.

[@bobsilva6222]

So proud of your family for doing such a great day handling this situation with a baby in back. If they had any frustration, it was pleasantly hidden. Great family.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

I know they really amazed me with their positive attitude and their can-do spirit!!

[@andrerodriguez7603]

I had many tires fixed with a plug from tire shops. No problem, lasted the rest of the life of the tire. There is no need to buy another tire. You are good to go. 👍😁

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Thanks for the advice.

[@lukedlv615]

I’ve had the same experience with patches. They last forever.

[@carlosoruna7174]

@@lukedlv615 vulcanized patches are the way to go

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Thanks for the advice!

[@andrerodriguez7603]

@@MiddleAgedTesla you did me a favor with your video. I carry a Slime” fix a flat, but I’m going to order one of those Plug repair kits. Those are better. The Slime will ruin the tire. The Plug totally repairs the tire if the hole is n the tread area and not the side wall. 👍🏻👍🏻

[@lyfandeth]

Small correction: that's a PLUG not a patch. Patches are always installed on the inside. AAA and other tows will often install plugs that last for the life of the tire, although tire and auto makers all advise against them. Tesla and some other cars, including all AWD, all require special care.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Yes. It was a plug and it has held up well so far.

[@balaji-kartha]

After the temporary patch, the psi was 48, when it was only 41 on the other 3. Having too much pressure is not good too. And now that you have a more secure plug, you really do not have to worry. It can easily run for more than a couple of thousand miles like that.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Thanks for the advice.

[@falconxlc]

Excellent job explaining everything! The temporary patch is usually a permanent fix. Psi goes up the higher the tire temperature, usually 5-7psi.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Thanks for the info!

[@rickmorenojr]

This isn't just a Telsa thing, it seems that most new cars from every manufacturer don't include a spare. Even if it had a spare, your daughter & Wife would have had to the swap tire or call someone. That's why I showed my kids and wife how to change tires and plug minor tire holes. Also, before starting a road trip, check the spare tire's air pressure (if you have one). Nothing sucks more than changing the tire only to find out that the spare is flat too.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

That’s my understanding as well that a lot of new cars are coming with spares. I could chill my wife how to do that but she would not want to do it and would call service anyways.

[@rodneymcknight3767]

@@MiddleAgedTesla I read last week 30% of new cars now don’t have spares. Tesla tires are heavier that many tires, right?

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Not sure if they are heavier but they are big.....any spare would have to be a temp spare (not full size) and that would not get you very far.

[@theodorehaskins3756]

So my advice since we don’t have a spare is to get yourself a tire inflator, and carry that with you, as there’s some really good ones that are excellent for doing a road side inflation of your tire, and you can also get a kit that has the tire plugs that the tire shop used to plug up her tire, and that’s a hell of a lot better than attempting to change a tire particularly if this was to happen at night, even if you had a spare tire, as it’s never recommended to do roadside repairs, to include changing a tire, also if this happened at night you want to make sure that you have the proper reflecting devices, so I always carry the roadside reflectors to put on the road to alert oncoming drivers that there’s a disable vehicle ahead on the side of the road, and make sure you have workable flashlights and some kits come with the orange vests that you see the workers wearing when they are out doing highway maintenance! So safe travels and I think your daughter did an excellent job of documenting this event! Cheers!

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Thanks for the advice.

[@royallclark6331]

I was in Austin last week (hoping to get into the Giga Rodeo with no luck) and on the way back to Brownsville, got a flat. It is the 3rd flat in 37,000 miles and all three was the left rear. The tech from Tesla said that about 75% of the flats he works on is on the left rear. He thinks it is that way because the right side of the car is closest to the dirty shoulder of the road and the front tire will "kick" up the debris and makes the nail, screw or what ever lift up and through "bad timing" get run over by the rear tire when in the vertical angle. Made sense to me so I thought I would pass on this little bit of "trivia" LOL

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

That is a very interesting point and it is the left rear tire that got a hole. We still don’t know how it got the hole because we couldn’t find anything in the tire.

[@tomcarr6416]

Sure looks like the right rear tire, aka the passenger side rear tire.

[@Dashock21]

I got a nail in my Model Y tire within the first 1k miles of taking delivery of my Tesla on a Sunday. Tesla’s service center tire patch is about 80-90 dollars, if the sidewall is not damaged. I purchased a beefy spare tire from Modern Spare, it’s not cheap but better than being on the side of the road and Tesla does sale a temporary tire patch kit, Maryland requires all Dealers to them by law with all new vehicles sales so mine was included at delivery. I Didn’t have to use either as the nail sealed/stayed put as I drove to 6 shops looking for a repair til I ultimately went to tesla the next day.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

How much space does the Modern Spare take up? I am worried with the luggage we take on road trips that it would take up too much space.

[@Dashock21]

@@MiddleAgedTesla it takes up a fair amount of space as it’s beefy spare. Recommend storing it up right, against the rear seat and stacking luggage against it. If not lay it flat and your luggage on top of it. Checkout this youtube video for size kzbin.info/www/bejne/gIW2ZpSAfMytapY

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Thanks for the link. That was my worry about the size. I have seen some mount it to the back of the seats somehow but it still takes up a lot of space.

[@tmorcos21]

I just replaced my tires on my MYP from pirelli 0's to Michelin pilot 4 all season and I love them. they don't have the foam on the inside but I truly don't notice the difference and they have built in rim protection

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

I kind of want to shy away from the foam since it was definitely an issue for the repair. Good to know it does not increase the road noise dramatically.

[@tmorcos21]

@@MiddleAgedTesla I love Michelin and they have a 9 rating for wet and dry braking. I have a friend in Michigan that did the same thing on his MYP and he drives it in the snow and a short icy hill without a problem

[@RockofArizona]

I still prefer a spare tire, space saver or full size, whichever is available. Good luck & save driving👍

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Yeah, not sure if I will add the spare due to space needed.

[@kens97sto171]

Great video.. and great customer service from Les Schwab., The big lesson is be prepared on a road trip.. stuff happens. You can get a plug kit like they used for $10 or so. and a small air compressor. Plugs are not officially OK to use anymore.. But honestly.. its what people used for decades. As long as there is no damage to the side of the tire you can usually fix them. then learn how to take the tire off, and do a plug yourself.. its really important on a road trip where you may not be able to get help.. or help is hours away. looking forward to the road trip video.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

We have a compressor and I am going to get a plug kit and a small jack but even if we had those on board, I would have had my wife call since I was not there and would not want her to try and repair that herself. If it is me, I will definitely try to fix those in the future. Thanks for watching!

[@caspernomad9262]

Excellent documentation on what to do with a flat tire!! This is something that isn't well defined by Tesla Service but definitely should be. The key is that Tesla tires are special and not all tire stores carry Tesla suitable replacements.

[@WAFFLEooFILMS]

Ok I was about to say what's the big deal! Why a video about it! Good to know.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Yes, Casper, it was a problem.....especially with the supply chain issues. Thanks for the comment and thanks for watching.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Yes WaffleooFilms, it is an issue. Thanks for watching!

[@geraldkoth654]

I travel full time and meet folks from all over. Everyone thinks that Les Schwab is the best. I always have plugs with me. They work fine and last as long as the tire.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Thanks for the comment. They definitely treated my wife and daughter right!

[@phil4986]

Great video. I have used these 'stick in the hole' patches in numerous tires and they have worked great. It can be a real pain to get in the hole. There is a hole preparing spike you really need to get in the hole and move up and down in the hole to move any stray steel fibers to the side. Once you do that, you put repair strand in the installation tool and cover it in rubber cement and push it deep in the hole with at least seventy percent of the strip inside the tire. Then what I do is cut the excess strip pieces hanging out of the tire off even with the surface of the tire, Excess strip hanging out of the tire usually wears away, but it can pull the rubber repair strip out of the tire so it's best to cut that excess off even with the top of the tire. It is important to know that most of the time you use a patch like this, a tire shop will not repair the tire. They don't know what you did to repair the tire, what condition it was in before the repair and, in some cases, their business liability insurance will not cover them if they further repair a tire that has been repaired with an insertion strip repair. I always keep a tire repair strip kit, a air inflation pump and a flashlight in my car because this usually happens at night. AAA is a far superior help on the roadside than any other roadside program. Their response team is top notch. The Les Shwab team though, really did a great job for you. Your family got very lucky. These low-profile tires can fail in potholes by tearing huge holes in the sidewalls of the tire. Thankfully, it was just a nail in the tire. There is another Tesla owner who had that happen on his two-month-old Tesla and lived a nightmare dealing Tesla assistance and numerous tow companies because his flat happened on a truck restricted parkway. Anyway, your family handled this tire emergency like true champs and the tire guy who came out, really knocked it of the park, getting them back on the road, instead of saying, "No, I can't do anything for you."

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Yes, I was really impressed with their customer service and will be a Les Schwab tire guy from now on. Thanks for watching!

[@Pk3_Garage]

Thanks for sharing. I'm glade your family made it home safely. This is why it's so important every vehicle should have a small low profile floor jack, tire plugs, spare tire, head light, tool to remove tire and tire inflator. If this was at night or in bad weather, the outcome would not have been the same. I know most cars today don't come with a full-size spare. It's worth buying one, if you have the room to store it.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Thanks for watching!

[@fredsalter1915]

Roadside guy put a plug in the tire. It is not a temporary fix. Tire plugs are solid, rest assured fixes for the most part. No real need to remove it and put an inside-the-tire patch in. But either way, that tire is good to go for the rest of its life. The biggest pain with a flat in a Tesla is how low the car's body sits. It's so low that it's hard to get a jack under it with the required "puck" installed in the jacking point.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

I am not concerned about the plug, I am concerned they may have driven too far on the tire when it was flat. Thanks for watching!

[@BengalTiger47]

I bought an inflator for my 580 mile trip to Tennessee next week. Obviously it won’t help in this case if I were to run over a huge nail, but it’s great to have in a pinch if you start losing pressure on the highway.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

I would recommend a plug kit too just in case.

[@cherryfressh6188]

Well, just looked it up. Most year models and trim levels of the Tesla Model Y come with either 255/45R19 tires or 255/40R20 tires. However, Performance models are typically staggered with 255/35R21 front tires and 275/35R21 rear tires. No matter what size tires you've got on your Model Y, we've got them available for you. And no, the did not in your case. Imagine that is was dark, raining and late in the evening. No spare tyre, no one to pick you up or help you in the middle of nowhere. (the usual)

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Les Schwab really did take care of them and helped them get on the way. It is an out of the way location in Oregon and it was during the supply chain issue time so that was probably a lot of the reason.

[@cherryfressh6188]

@@MiddleAgedTesla It was not meant as criticism. It sounded like one. Reading it back. I was thinking of a situation as I also had. Changing a tyre in the pouring rain. And I sure was happy to have a spare tyre. I was soaking wet, but home 🏡

[@markreaume9417]

i have a 12v air compressor that i use twice a year to top up tire pressure to ensure best range - the compressor fits into the storage well at the left rear of the trunk area so its always in the car, the well has a 12v socket and i keep tire plug kit in car in same place. Tesla road side service/ranger in some areas will bring you a "loaner tire" that they will put on at the road side and you have to retrieve your original from the service centre end of next day. I had a slow leak that i got a warning icon while driving so i drove straight to the service centre, and they installed loaner tire while i waited and repaired mine by the end of the day and re- installed it $95CDN

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Yeah, I have a compressor but want to get a plug kit too. Thanks for watching!

[@allenvalera9879]

Les Schwab is the best tire company ever. I wish they have a Les Schwab here in the Big Island Hawaii. All my cars were with Les Schwab in California. Aloha!

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

They definitely treated us right. Thanks for watching!

[@stephen2220]

You could have driven on the repaired tire until the tire wore out! The tire plug the service guy installed, in most cases would last the life of the tire. I've used tire plugs many, many, many times in the past and they have almost always lasted until the tire wore out and needed to be replaced. Always keep a tire inflator with you in the car that plugs into the 12v adapter socket and buy a tire repair kit like the service guy used. This will save you on your next trip.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

At this point, I now have a tire inflator and a plug kit in the car however, it was my wife on her own with my daughter, and they would not have been able to fix it anyway.

[@Luis-xe9og]

I noticed the lady was in Autopilot all the time. That is amazing!! My girlfriend is scared of Autopilot after emergency breaking got activated in a false collision while driving at 65 mph and then the car did a hard brake to 20mph. Now it has been a nightmare for me to get her thrust back when it comes of using AP.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

She only likes to use autopilot on the freeway and doesn’t like to use the full self driving around town.

[@red2977]

I recently rented a tesla. Within the first 20 minutes I had a flat. Went to look for the spare and there was no spare. It didn't even occur to me that it may be difficult to come by Tesla tires. That would actually be a massive red flag for me if I was buying a new car. My day got screwed up by the flat, but because the flat happened within the first hour of the rental the rental company covers the cost of the tow and paid for the lyft ride to an airport for a replacement car. I'm hesitant to rent a Tesla in the future as their tires seem to have more issues than other vehicles. They have nice acceleration and decent control though. First car I rented had like 39k miles on it and I have heard talk that even though they are supposed to be rated for that distance that a lot of people say anything over 15k is borrowed time on the original tires. No idea if it is true but I never had a flat in my life prior to this, so it is weird it happens with only my second tesla rental.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

I think it was a coincidence. I have not had a problem with my second set and 30K miles.

[@schnaeutz4546]

I don't drive long distances without a temporary spare wheel. It saved me last December.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Yes, we need to consider something different for our Texas road trip for sure.

[@bobuk5722]

Hi, now that's a good example of the famed US customer service ethos. A vey honest tire (tyre!) depot as well. A patch would be the best solution if viable - there is no way it can blow out as it is fitted from inside with an internal integral domed head. However the plugs work and if near the end of the tire life are probably a good solution. Not easy to fix in situ though, much, much better to be able to take the wheel off. You need to have that jack, know where to use it, have the long handled wrench and nut cap removal tool as well as the repair kit and an air pump. All my punctures have been late at night on wet roads in the rain. Fortunately up to now I had a spare tyre with me ..... I'm planning on buying a Tesla and I suspect I will also get a compact spare tire - need to work out how to secure it firmly in case of a crash, I'm not having it loose in the trunk (boot!). In the 'good old days' you just needed two tyre levers and a spare tube or a small rubber latch and rubber glue! The introduction of radial tyres put a stop to that, very difficult to break the bead from the rim. Anyway, thanks for posting, useful to see the process.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Thanks for watching!!!

[@JeanPierreWhite]

Rather than buy new tires that should definitely be fixable. A decent tire shop should be able to cut 4 inches of foam away from around the patch. Fix it and remount and balance. Alternatively leave the patch in if its good.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Good tip!

[@markymaarty]

Great job for documenting everything! 👍🏻

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Thanks, my daughter did a great job!

[@L1GHT119]

FYI-I have a 21 Model Y performance. Had a screw in sidewall but didn't penetrate but then recently developed a slow leak. Made appt with Costco Tire , which was comical. First, they kept saying it was a run flat, then because its Pirelli the can't repair... then after smoothing that out the Supervisor didn't wan to cut the acoustic foam where they found a nail. The mechanic was like its fine, we have clearance from corporate about this already then after going back and forth they plugged and patched it....only took 2 hours lol. Pro tip= Carry your own lift pucks as Costco's were NOT suitable, and many repair shops might not have them !

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Yes I bought the lift pucks and have them in the car and the guy from Les Schwab said he was super happy that I had them since they didn’t.

[@LarryRichelli]

I carry a jack, the lift pucks, this same tire plug kit and an electric pump so I can do this same process. I have had many tires with plugs in them with no problems over the life of the tires.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Thanks, I definitely need to get a few more things.

[@andrewradford3953]

Plugged a slow leak on our Nissan leaf tyre and it is perfect. I think legally in Australia plugs require a patch on the inside.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Interesting. Thanks for watching!!

[@wtlwoods]

The plug they put in should work for the rest of the tires life. New tire is not needed.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

The problem is I think they drove on it too long and they may have damaged the inside of the tire. I have to check to see what damage may have done by driving on the flat.

[@1803Cherrymugo]

Flats happen. Tire plugs are a easy and permanent fix. I do it all the time.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

I agree after seeing them work.

[@kickboxer8173]

good job .

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@MichaelrennieG]

20 dollar air compressor could helped , I bought the same thing he repaired it on the road with for $15, crazy it looked to me that the tire is fine, I cannot believe that you did not pull over when the warning came in, your very lucky you did not destroy the rim.. Thanks for the video, this will probably help many

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

It was my wife and daughter (I was at home) and I said the same thing to them. The tire ended up needing to be replaced but the rim was fine. Thanks for watching!

[@Dronethat]

If you own a Tesla, always carry a tire repair kit and the jack mount adaptor. These tire plugs can last for a while and you don't even have to buy a new tire.

[@nanrod981]

Also need to keep a jack and lift pucs in the car

[@Dronethat]

@@nanrod981 ...don't forget the 12V tire inflator.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

So we have the 12 Volt tire compressor and the lifting jacks but need to get a plug kit and a jack. We are going to do that before our road trip this summer.

[@stefancervik5347]

Amazon sells a spare tire. Very handy to take along on trip's.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Yes, Modern Spare sells one too but it takes up quite a bit of space.

[@stefancervik5347]

Yeah I’m sure it does but that’s a personal decision I guess between being stuck waiting Tesla or losing some space!

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Yeah it is, I am not sure if it would fit with the luggage we usually bring on a road trip but I might check it out.

[@farmerfarmerer3847]

Good job parking off the road in a safe place. Thanks for sharing this experience. I also use those plugs - they're great.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

They did do a good job and that road does not have a ton of pull offs. Glad they found one. Thanks for watching!

[@rodneymcknight3767]

Great video for me….I’ve always had a spare tire but now my M3 will be here soon and I have been wondering and reading about what to do if I get a flat..good to see an actual happening….great job daughter!

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Thanks. She did a great job!

[@Peter-ok9bj]

Those plugs last the life of the tire so don't worry. In New York you do that all the time. No need for a new tire.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Thanks!

[@larrysample4046]

I'll say it again, great job your daughter did making the video. Smart girl! As far as the tire goes, it might be a good idea to have Tesla swap you for a more common 18" wheels/tires. Those 20" are rare in the smaller widths. But has been mentioned the plug will probably hold for the life of the tire.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Thanks....I am going to have our local Les Schwab check on it.

[@robertmilostan6529]

Call Modern Spare there in Utah they have spare tires for Tesla’s with a jack and all the tools.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Yes, I have been looking at their website. Thanks for the tip.

[@ShawverFilms]

First time viewer of your channel. Your daughter really did excellent! 🍻

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Thanks I was really impressed with what she did. Please check out some of my other videos I put a lot of work into them!

[@johncalmerin6689]

I have punctured tire on my highlander, and its been 3 years and still going.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

The plug does seem pretty reliable. Thanks for watching.

[@karlm8067]

Good to know-Thanks for sharing 🤠

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Thank you for watching!

[@DavidWilliams-qk5jq]

What a horrific story! Glad they made it back safely. Gosh, I hate to think what would have happened without the help of Les Schwab. Makes the hairs on the back of the neck stand up. Wow.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

I know…Les Schwab really came through for us!!!

[@kens97sto171]

Les Schwab did a great job.. great customer service.. However.. Its is a lesson in being prepared to fix things yourself.. You can buy a quick plug kit like they used for $10 or so,.. get a small air compressor to keep in the car, and learn how to take a tire off and use the plug. on a long road trip.. it could really save you for a lot a hassle.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Yes, we had a compressor but I didn’t want my wife to have to deal with it since I wasn’t there. Going to get a plug kit and maybe a small jack. Looks like it is much easier to plug the tire if it is off.

[@kens97sto171]

@@MiddleAgedTesla I know that car doesn't come with a spare tire but do they not give you a small scissor jack? I'm not sure what the jack points are like on a Tesla. Definitely easier to put one of those plugs in if you pull the tire off, but it's definitely Good to be prepared.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

No jack and no compressor. I bought a compressor from Tesla separately and now plan on getting a plug kit and a small jack. I agree it looks a lot easier to put the plug in with the tire off.

[@dobsonimages]

Get AAA for a free tow and if you are a member long enough you can upgrade to AAA plus for a tow up to 200 miles.

[@bigdougscommentary5719]

A lot of AAA tow truck drivers do not know how to tow a Tesla. Plenty of horror stories on the internet. If u use AAA, make sure u ask if they have towed a Tesla before.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Yes my understanding is you have to get into the service screen and have them read the information about towing a Tesla. All the information is in the screen under service for them to read so they can understand how to do it correctly.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

That was going to be our next step but since Les Schwab was able to come out we didn’t need to have it towed. We do have AAA and that was step three. Step one was Tesla service, and step two was less Schwab.

[@rodneymcknight3767]

@@bigdougscommentary5719 they say ask for a flat bed.

[@bowens963]

Interesting insight on a tesla puncture. To be honest I was surprised that when someone got a puncture their first thought was to phone Telsa. When I have a puncture, it's not my first instinct to call the manufacturer. But it was interesting none-the-less to see how they solved the problem. The only thing left out of the video to make it more informative was; 1. How much did they charge to 'patch' the puncture on the road? 2. How much would they have charged to change the wheel? and 3. How much do Tesla charge for a new wheel?

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

As they were stranded I told them to just call the road service. They owner manual says to call Tesla service first so that is what they did. I think Abby mentioned it but they did not charge us anything at all. We don’t know what it would have cost to fix it in the shop or what a new tire would have been. Stay tuned and I will do an update video if I replace it.

[@jeffmitchell5914]

Good job daughter! 👏

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

She did a great job!!!

[@Uouttooo]

You have a jack in your car at all times. Wow! Isn't that heavy?

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

I agree the weight of just a jack isn’t much but add a jack and a spare tire and that could make a big difference in efficiency in an electric car.

[@edwinodus]

You going to buy a new tire every time you get a flat?

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

No, I think they drove on it too long and damaged the tire…..

[@dwayneroberts1471]

That should be good don’t need anymore patch.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

That’s what it sounds like I just wanna make sure the tire wasn’t damaged by driving on it when it was flat.

[@kordobez3978]

Thats why I always carry an air compressor and a “ commercial “ tire Plugs set😆

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

I have the air compressor but am going to get plugs next! Do you have one you recommend?

[@grumpusmaximus9446]

I remember way back, when Passenger cars came with a full size spare.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Yes, not anymore!

[@timshephard]

I had les Schwab remove and patch my MY tire and it didn’t hold. Maybe it’s because of the foam. I ended up going to a SC and putting on a new tire was $380. Next time, I’d plug it myself. I keep a kit and pump in the car. Nice video!

[@rogerf3622]

@Tim Shepard…keeping an electric pump and plug kit is excellent advice. This holds true for any vehicle even if you have a spare. Not sure why Tesla doesn’t have a pump as standard equipment. Honda and others give a pump when the vehicle doesn’t have a spare. Most leaks are usually small and the pump can get you to a better location. A simple and cheap ($5) plug kit might just get you home.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

I agree Tim Shephard and I have a pump but don’t have the plug kit which I’m going to get.

[@JeanPierreWhite]

With the foam there is often left over adhesive that needs removing prior to patching or it will leak.

[@Kio.O]

Wow. Who would have thought that such a simple adult problem would be such a big deal. Obviously it being a tesla was a huge help. I guarantee you this same title with a 94 Honda the photo it wouldn’t get many views lol.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Yeah, probably not. I think it is going to be a problem more and more with other cars coming out without spares.

[@metalman69201]

I also have a daughter named Abigail and your Abigail is an absolute doll...

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Thanks. She is an amazing young woman.

[@johnd9031]

They should come with a spare tire.

[@willkastens5585]

Thought plugging a tire is not recommended,splits the cords.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

I am not sure as I have had a bunch of people tell me that they have had plugs and the tires have lasted their full life. Had not heard about the splitting the cords before….interesting!

[@young4money41]

Wow I never knew you could call locally and get a tire guy to help with your flat. Wow you guys are so smart. That’s genius level thinking. You guys definitely should be working for nasa instead of the super informative videos.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

You be surprised how many people don’t realize that Tesla doesn’t have a spare and would be sitting there wondering what to do.

[@stevenelliott3444]

Okay the tire repair guy was trying to rip you off, the tire plug that he put in if he did it right it should last the life of the tire. I was a tire repair guy for over 10 years and I have used tire plugs and I have not have any of them League air at all I have a 2022 Tesla model Y and I Carrie a professional tire repair kit in my car with a tire air pump that I bought from Amazon

[@TronHardy]

Correct. I've been using tire plugs for years, never had one fail. They last the life of the tire. I just recently plugged my Tesla tire without issue.

[@My2JZandMe]

Can't agree with you more! I had a 1st flat on my Model 3 Performance and it's holding 6500 miles perfectly fine. I don't even remember plugging it up the 1st week I bought the car home. I made a video on it! Was a fun experience.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

I really don’t think they were trying to rip us off. The guy who came out to fix it was really young and just wanted to make sure that they would be safe for the six hour trip home. Once they got to the shop the guy with more experience agreed that it should hold no problem. The one thing we are worried about is that by driving on the rim for a bit they may have damaged the inside of the tire. I’d rather just get that fixed so I don’t have to worry about it on the big road trip to Texas. I am going to get a plug kit and add it to my Tesla bag of tricks. We already have the Tesla air pump.

[@endofunk2174]

Why don't Teslas have run flat tires and/or an emergency tire repair kit (incl. tire pump)

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Good question, they have a pump kit you can buy but nothing is included.

[@AlwaysLearningStuff]

I have never seen a plug not outlast the life of the tyre. Not sure why they needed to go to the shop after the plug went in.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

I think the guy who came out was just not sure and wanted to make sure the head guy back at the shop with comfortable with the fix.

[@davesvoboda2785]

Are there any modern cars, especially EVs, with a spare tire? I put my spare on from a flat only last year, with my 15yo car.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Not sure about other EVs but Tesla does not. I have heard a lot of other new cars don’t either (I.e. that is the trend) but don’t have any actual knowledge.

[@karatohongkongcat]

Nice video and glad they made home safe and sound. I keep patch kit, air pump compressor that plugs in to the 12v outlet in car and waiting on an electric scissor jack that also plugs into 12v comes in a case, going to Michigan in august want to be ready. I got my MYP 2022 and came with the all season Michelin tires 🛞.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Yeah, going to get some more things before we head out to Texas this summer. We have a compressor but not a plug kit or a jack.

[@theodorehaskins3756]

So one other thing I neglected to mention is to have a spray bottle with water so that when you inflate the tire you can squirt water on the tire and you can pretty much see the bubbles as the air is coming out that way you don’t have to spend a whole lot of time trying to search for where that air is escaping from, because if the air is escaping from the sidewall the plugs won’t work, and generally the tire is unserviceable, so you’ll be stuck having to wait for someone to come out in that situation! Also once you locate the damaged area, and remove the object that punctured the tire, you can stick that plug-in without having to actually remove the tire from the car, but you do need to get some air inside the tire before you do that! Cheers!

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Thanks for the advice!

[@rafaelmartinez3151]

Plugging a tire takes quite a bit of strength and patience. I would think it would be harder to do with the tire on the car.

[@theodorehaskins3756]

@@rafaelmartinez3151 Touché! It would be particularly hard if you’re on the side of the road in the dark with traffic, very dangerous situation that no one should even attempt in my opinion! Cheers!🥂

[@bigdougscommentary5719]

Another tire shop that doesn’t know what it’s doing. I had a nail in my Model 3 tire and Big Brand Tire refused to repair it. American Tire said no problem and quickly patched the tire. There is foam in the tire and it was once glued in. It is no longer glued in but the glue is what Big Brand Tire objected to. American Tire was prepared to repair the tire, glue or no glue. If u get the Brig Brand Tire response from any tire shop, run away. The foam is NOT a problem.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

I think the point he was trying to make was that the plug was good enough and that a patch was not necessary. I think he was also worried that if he did try to put a patch in and messed up the foam that he might have a problem putting it back together again. They were extremely helpful and I really think that Les Schwab did a great job!

[@5JSG]

You dont need a new tire for a simple puncture like that, Only if u get a puncture in the side wall your tire needs replacing.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Yeah, I agree but just decided to replace them all. The plug would have been good enough. More of a choice than a need.

[@JohnsmithQqqq]

I believe that most women should take a simple automobile educational program to generally familiarize themselves with basic emergency procedures. If the tire deflated within a minute of hitting an obstruction…… how will putting more air into help 😅. By the time they get back into the car the tire will be flat again 🤔.

[@nanrod981]

Is it possible to keep a spare wheel in the Frunk or trunk together with jack and pump?

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

I am thinking about going with a plug kit and a jack to accompany my pump that I bought from Tesla. I don’t think I will get a spare tire as it will take up a lot of space.

[@pit5000]

you guys carry a jack with you? doesn't that waste a lot of storage space?

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

No, but thinking of getting a compact one to throw in a side pocket. I think Modern spare sells one but not sure. That was the jack that Les Schwab brought on the truck with them.

[@franthonycornett1742]

I am thinking they meant they provided the jack pads/pucks

[@farmerfarmerer3847]

@@franthonycornett1742 Yes and thats super important when a third party might not know, and compromise the battery compartment.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Tesla does not really provide anything. I had to buy the jack pads after market and there is no jack either. Jack pads are a must as most shops and trucks don't have them.

[@MichaelrennieG]

you better let out the pressure to equal all the tires, or you will ruin the others

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Thanks for the tip!

[@kenseagle4169]

Abigail did great! Good video, good content, she speaks well, and shes cute! :-)

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

We agree!

[@StuartLomas]

Not being a TRSLA owner, do I assume you are not given a space saver or inflation kit $40,000+ car like you get with most other makes?

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Correct, no spare and no inflation kit comes with the car.

[@StuartLomas]

@@MiddleAgedTesla I find that shocking considering the purchase price, I drive a Mercedes and I feel short changed that I get an inflation kit & not a space saver.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Yeah, I get it for the space but I think it should at least have a repair kit like your car included. The Tesla does not have anything included.

[@KLFaber]

The Tesla does not come with an on board spare tire, nor does it come with a jack, correct?

[@farmerfarmerer3847]

Correct. Apparently this is common with alot of these brands.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Correct, no spare tire or jack.

[@mwhy244]

That temporary fix can last of the year or more.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Yes but I am worried about the damage they may have done to the tire after they drove on it after it was flat.

[@naanya6201]

curious are you planning on have both the rear tires replaced since they recommend pairs?

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

That’s what I’m thinking I don’t want to replace just one but I might replace all four depending on what credit they might give me for the tires.

[@robertocantero5538]

Nice video

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Thanks

[@mikej5403]

Nice video.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Thank you very much!

[@sal87escobar10]

There was no need to go to the tire shop after the plug.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Yes they weren’t sure about whether they would need to or not but the guy at the store told them that the plug would be good enough.

[@chezchezchezchez]

It was AAA mentioned anywhere? Everybody needs to have a AAA membership if you own a Tesla

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

We have AAA but Tesla also has roadside service included. After they couldn't make it they called Les Scwhab next. AAA would have been then next call.

[@islandboi2447]

How far is the nearest tesla dealer ? How come they can't just sell you brand new tire from tesla ?

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Up in Bandon I believe it was 251 miles away. It was too far for them to get to.

[@kennethkim1]

Loved Ur video 🤗🤗

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Thanks!!

[@blomegoog]

This is Tesla's Achilles heel. They don't give you a spare tire. So many owners I know say they got a flat and waited hours for service/towing to arrive. This could be dangerous if you're alone at night. Along with the sun shades and side mirrors, there is still a lot of low tech on Teslas.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

From what I have found out, a lot of newer cars are not coming with spare tires. It just means you need to be prepared with other options.

[@DFB3321]

No spare tire?????

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Not in a Tesla sir!

[@Panchitobear]

There is no spare tire on Tesla’s car?

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

No, no spare tire comes with the car. You can get a third party spare but it takes up quite a bit of space.

[@biofueler]

Tesla has no spare tire i hear which is A VERY BIG FLAW! think if it happened at night in a storm on a long trip.. nightmare!

[@GoferZeroSix]

Especially if it's a sidewall puncture or a total shred that can't be temporarily fixed roadside.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

It’s my understanding a lot of new cars are not coming with spares. You can buy a third-party spare but I think I’m going to go with a plug kit of my own and my own scissor jack. If I get a shred or a damage to the sidewall then I would be screwed and have to come up with another option.

[@biofueler]

@@MiddleAgedTesla i d rather hv a spare just in case. Will keep my car. Live in himterland. No tesla service here.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Probably not a bad idea if space is not an issue!

[@biofueler]

@@MiddleAgedTesla Fuel tank, engine , exhaust, & transmission space savings give every EV ample extra space 4 a SPARE TIRE! IT is a necessity! No excjses Tesla! U need a spare tire!

[@crtmojo2705]

Does the car come with a full size spare?

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

No the Model Y does not have any spare.

[@Orangedocfamilymedic]

Did you consider getting a spare tire? What would happened if the tire damage would not be repairable/patchable?

[@dstr1]

I had an incident where one of my valve stem broke at the base. I bought a regular wheel and an electric Jack and wrench set. It have patch kit and emergency flashing lights too.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

D Strachan, what type of jack did you get?

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Good question Adolfo, since no tires were available, I would probably have had to drive up there to get them and pick up the car after a tire was obtained.

[@Orangedocfamilymedic]

@@MiddleAgedTesla so you would tow and leave your Tesla at a local tire shop until you get your new tire.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Not sure what I would have done if it wasn't repairable since there were no other tires around. Even if I had a spare, it would most likely have been a limited range one and would not have got them home.

[@djbliss1]

Good to know ! Thanks for sharing!

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Thanks for watching!

[@douggolde7582]

Cybertruck has an air compressor.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

I had one too that I got from Tesla along with the goo but with the hole that size I don’t think it would have helped.

[@JeanPierreWhite]

Cybertruck isn't available for purchase. So it doesn't have anything just yet.

[@abc123fhdi]

What happens if you don't have cell service where you are?

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Guess you would be up a creek without a paddle…..or a spare!

[@JeanPierreWhite]

Walk.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Yep!

[@jeffreywillis4258]

If you can afford a Tesla you can call a wrecker, have it towed to a mechanic or call roadside assistance and have THEM change the tire. Maybe rent a towncar and go about your business.

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Unfortunately where they were at there were not many options but the Les Schwab roadside assistance worked great. If that would not have been available we would have just had it towed. I usually just have people do it for me as well but wanted to give self help people some options.

[@AG-vk9gq]

buy a space saver spare for piece of mind

[@ronbradshaw7404]

Someone should invent spair tires that you could carry in the trunk/ frunk!. Oh wait, it alreaddy exists yayyy!!! :)

[@MiddleAgedTesla]

Yes they do but they take up quite a bit of space and are limited in their range. My wife and daughter had too far to go for the range of one of those spares and there were no tires in our size available anywhere around.