Why a Tire Plug Kit Beats Spray Sealant When You Get a Flat

A flat tire ruins plans. The wrong “fix” ruins a tire. Those spray sealant cans feel like a miracle in the moment, but they’re a short-term fix, and they can leave a mess for the person who has to repair the tire later. A proper plug kit—used correctly and only in the repairable area—can be the difference between finishing your trip and calling a tow.

The tire industry is clear that not every puncture is repairable, and sidewall damage is a hard stop. The Tire Industry Association’s guidance...