Open ProvincesFlat tire or dead battery: decide whether roadside work is safe
A roadside repair is optional; traffic, weather, ground stability and the vehicle manual decide whether to try it or call for help.
Adapted from a guide first written for Quebec readers: passages specific to Quebec were removed. Rules in your province may differ.
You do not have to repair a tire or battery yourself. The first decision is whether you and the vehicle are in a safe place. A narrow shoulder, poor visibility, fast traffic, snow, ice, soft ground or a steep slope can make a do-it-yourself repair more dangerous than waiting for roadside assistance.
If a tire fails while driving
- Hold the steering wheel firmly and ease off the accelerator; avoid a sudden hard brake or abrupt turn.
- Move out of traffic only when you can do so safely, then activate hazard lights.
- If the stopped vehicle is exposed to traffic or you cannot safely exit, remain protected and call roadside assistance or emergency services as appropriate.
- Do not place a jack on soft, sloped or unstable ground. Use only the lifting points and procedure specified in the owner's manual.
Before attempting a wheel change
Park on firm, level ground away from traffic, apply the parking brake and follow the vehicle's manual for wheel blocks, jack points, tools and tightening procedure. Never get under a vehicle supported only by a jack. If the spare, tools, ground or your physical ability are inadequate, call for help.
For a dead battery
Battery systems and jump-start points differ, especially in hybrids, electric vehicles and vehicles with sensitive electronics. Read the owner's manual before connecting a booster or another vehicle. Do not try to jump-start a battery that is swollen, leaking, cracked, frozen, unusually hot or producing a strong smell; step away and call assistance. If the procedure or terminals are unclear, do not guess.
Sources and limits
Follow the vehicle owner's manual and call roadside assistance when the location, equipment or procedure is unsafe or uncertain.
General information based on federal and national rules; provincial rules may differ. Confirm with the official body before acting.