The days of spare wheels in the trunk are now long gone. Most new cars come with tire sealants. These sealants are used to offer an immediate solution to flat tires. Made to be used in seconds without any hassle, tire sealants are a must-have when the car doesn’t come with any spare wheels.
Instantly sealing punctures, tire sealants are capable, especially when it comes to emergency situations when away from home. Without the need for special tools, most tire sealants are simply squeezed-in the wheels, allowing the sealants’ mixture to do all the extra work. It means that even if a secondary puncture would occur, the tire would still be functional as the mixture would immediately seal the new puncture as well. Here are the best tire sealants to consider.
- Top 10 Best Tire Sealants 2024
- 1. NoTubes Stan’s Tire Sealant
- 2. Slime Tire Sealant
- 3. Berryman 1316 Seal-R Tire Sealing Compound
- 4. Fix-A-Flat S60430 Tire Inflator
- 5. GEMPLER'S Ultraseal Extreme Heavy-Duty Grade Tire Sealant
- 6. Slime 70005 Safety Spair 7 Minute Flat Tire Repair System
- 7. Plustyre Tire Sealant
- 8. Tire Life PSF Plus Puncture Sealing Formula
- 9. LiquiTube Tire Sealant
- 10. Multi-Seal Tire Sealant with Kev
- FAQ
- Can I use a tire sealant myself?
- My car has expensive tires, is a sealant safe?
- How long can I drive for after applying a tire sealant?
- I have a puncture on the highway, can I drive away after using the tire sealant?
- My tire sealant has no applicator, how can I use it?
- Can I use a tire sealant on my kids’ bikes?
- How long can I leave the sealant in the tire?
- Guide to Buying the Best Tire Sealants
- Conclusion
Top 10 Best Tire Sealants 2024
1. NoTubes Stan’s Tire Sealant
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
With a premium formula, the tire sealant works for all types of tires. From cars to bikes’ tires, it should be one of the top names to consider. The sealant is available in 16 and 32-ounce packages. The most interesting part of the formulation and the design of the packaging is that it actually allows the formula to remain liquid anywhere from 2 to 7 months.
As a result, it is one of the sealants which can be stored inside the trunk at all times. It provides a backup even for those who have extra tires or it can be a stand-alone product to use for punctures. The squeezing formula also means there’s not too much force needed to apply it through the tire’s valve. So those who have to deal with frustrating punctures can do so without hassle.
Convenient features
Sealing punctures of up to ¼” or 6.5mm makes this formula capable. Like most drivers who use the product already know, the formula allows for instant sealing which offers an immediate response, allowing the drivers to continue their journey.
Even with low-viscosity and instant action, the formula of the sealant is still safe for the environment. At disposal, it will not add to the pollution problems normally associated with tires and their accessories. In fact, the formula is made to offer reliable results even below freezing temperatures. So drivers can use it both during the summer and during the winter. Regardless of the season, the sealant is applied following the same steps and injecting the sealant through the tire’s valve. Of course, driving in extreme weather conditions would still require drivers to monitor the sealant level in the tire.
Verdict
Made to offer an environmentally-friendly quick-acting formulation, the tire sealant impresses with its versatility.
Pros
- Made for all tires
- Based on a premium formulation
- Works during freezing temperatures
- Seals puncture up to ¼”
Cons
- No injector included
2. Slime Tire Sealant
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
Available in convenient packages, users can choose the sealant in a 31-ounce or 1-gallon versions. Its main purpose is when used to repair tire punctures. Drivers can use the formula to fix flats in a matter of seconds. The sealant comes with a distinct vivid color so this improves its visibility in the area of the flat. Made cover punctures of up to 3mm, the formulation immediately seals all punctures and it allows drivers a more direct approach to fixing flat tires. Since the sealant is so versatile, it is also available in smaller quantities, which are mainly suitable for bikes or other smaller tires.
Convenient features
Dealing with 1/8” punctures, the sealant offers an immediate response ensuring drivers can be on their way in no time. In many cases, it is the only backup plan drivers can hope for. This is why it should be stored in the car at all times. Since it is lightweight and quite compact, it can fit somewhere in the trunk, if the car does not already come with a special storage compartment.
The formulation is specifically designed for tubeless tires, which are the norm with modern cars. But at the same time, even acting as a sealant and expanding its size, it is still made with a non-toxic and non-flammable profile. It means it will not do any harm to the environment or to the driver. But at the same time, it also means kids can apply it to their bike’s tires if needed, under safe conditions. Based on the fibro-seal technology, the sealant offers an immediate response as air tries to get out of the tire, sealing the puncture. At the same time, the sealant works best with tire punctures which come in contact with the road surface and it is less effective for side punctures.
The product itself cleans up with plain water. When the time comes to professionally seal the tire, removing the sealant is not too difficult. Based on a mess-free formula, the tire sealant is already part of a large group of products which use the same formulation but in different quantities even outside car tires use and aimed at industrial tires as a proof of its real value.
Applying sealant is not complicated. The valve should be positioned in the upper half of the tire. Air can then be released and the object of the punctures, such as a nail, can then be removed. The sealant is then squeezed into the tire and air is added at the end.
Verdict
Stopping flats, the tire sealant is among the simplest and most effective options for continuous sealing, even when driving away.
Pros
- Made with a non-toxic formula
- Suitable for multiple punctures
- Instantly seals punctures of up to 3mm
- Based on a lightweight formula
Cons
- Can be messy at times
3. Berryman 1316 Seal-R Tire Sealing Compound
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
Made to fix various punctures on tires, the sealant is one of the most popular products in its class. It manages to surpass many of its alternatives and the good news is that applying it is easier as well. The manufacturer included an applicator which means that using the product is faster and even more efficient.
The mixture is safe on all types of wheels. From the standard entry-level tires to the more expensive releases, the sealant will not damage the wheel. In fact, it will also not damage the environment as its made with a biodegradable formula. Once drivers want to remove it from their tires, they can do so with water and a hose.
Convenient features
Using the sealant is straightforward and it doesn’t require following too many steps which would already limit what drivers can do with punctures out on the road. As with most sealants, the valve should be positioned in the upper region of the wheel, so that the formula would evenly coat the wheel downwards. The cap from the spout is inserted into the valve. Before pushing the sealant into the tire, it is recommended to fully extend the fill tube to allow an even flow. Once the filler has been squeezed into the tire, any excess mixture is wiped with a cloth. Once these steps are followed, drivers can re-inflate the tire as they would in normal circumstances.
The result of all of these steps is that the fluid actually seals all punctures. It can be left on the wheel for up to a few days although some drivers report it is in the wheel even for longer. Since the liquid can be in the tire for longer periods of time, it is important to know that it will not corrode the rubber, leaving it intact.
With a manufacturing history of almost 100 years, Berryman has VOC-licensed the sealant in all 50 states. Since it is safe to use under all conditions, it can also be transferred from the car’s tires to any other tires facing punctures, such as those on kids’ bikes.
Verdict
With a safe formulation, the sealant is applied within minutes, being safe on all types of tires with its non-corrosive profile.
Pros
- VOC-approved in all 50 states
- Ships with a new valve core tool
- Allows water clean-up
- Safe biodegradable formula
Cons
- The pump can leak at times
4. Fix-A-Flat S60430 Tire Inflator
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
The sealant has one of the simplest applications in its class. It comes with a practical applicator which means punctures are dealt with on the spot, without the need to lift the car. Fixing any puncture is easy. First of all, drivers need to ensure the wheels are in the correct position. The manufacturer recommends moving the valve at the 6 o’clock position. Before applying the sealant, it should be shaken for up to 30 seconds for even distribution. Shaking the can while the hose is attached is not recommended. Drivers can then proceed to connect the hose to the tire’s valve. Pushing the activator will release the product. Drivers then release the button when the mixture is not moving through the hose. When the rim is off the ground, drivers can continue their journey.
But Fix-A-Flat also recommends drivers to drive at a slower speed for up to 4 miles to allow the product to evenly coat the wheel. When it has properly spread, the car can be on its way. The manufacturer also states that adding air to the wheel can also be needed to make it reach its normal running parameters. However, leaving the mixture in the wheel is not advisable. All drivers should actually take care of the wheel and take it into a professional within 3 days. If this is not possible, the car should not travel more than 100 miles with the mixture inside the wheel.
Made with a safe formulation, the mixture will not damage the tires or the rims of the car. It is made with a safe formulation which does not impact the environment. Drivers can rely on it for the best results with no side effects.
Convenient features
Made with a convenient formulation, the tire sealant is easily removed from the tire. A professional can remove it only using water. If the wheel comes with a tire pressure monitoring system, the tire professional should also ensure the system is clean before fixing the tire.
Based on a history going back to the ‘70s, the sealant is the first product of its kind. It still remains a viable product which is very easy to apply and which most drivers love as it comes with an included application tube.
However, the product is only aimed at emergency situations. Drivers should not use it in the hopes of avoiding punctures. All tires have specific working parameters and it’s important to abide by them. However, the sealant will do its job up to 100 miles in emergency situations.
Verdict
With a convenient applicator, the sealant is among the fastest solutions drivers can consider for their tires.
Pros
- Included applicator
- Suitable up to 100 miles
- Made with a non-toxic formulation
- Requires no jacking
Cons
- Made for one-time use only
5. GEMPLER'S Ultraseal Extreme Heavy-Duty Grade Tire Sealant
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
Made to permanently seal leaks, the product is advisable for heavier cars, trucks, or SUVs. Offered in a 1-gallon container, it can even serve large off-road vehicles with their wide and tall tires. It is mainly known for its long life as a result.
Since it is made for larger wheels, it can also handle larger punctures. If most products are aimed at small punctures, Gempler’s sealant offers protection against punctures of up to ½”. All air leaks can be sealed as a result. The application is easy even with such a large container. The sealant actually ships with an application tube and an included pump. The pump is used until the sealant is not running through the transparent tube anymore. With the help of the included pump, drivers can apply as much sealant as needed for their tires.
Convenient features
As one of the heavy-duty sealants, the product impresses with its simple profile. It comes to suit all needs in terms of vehicles and even in terms of outdoor temperatures. Its durability is truly impressive as it maintains it proprieties with temperatures as low as -40F or as high as 300F. This is important as the sealant will not freeze in the tire, which could potentially damage the rubber and limit the protection of the rim. At the same time, it won’t evaporate at high heat which means drivers can continue their journeys on the highway.
But the convenience of the tire sealant can also be seen when there’s only a small puncture which can’t deflate the tire too soon. Even punctures which deflate tires in a matter of days can be dealt with by the sealant. In fact, keeping the tires properly inflated will not actually increase fuel consumption as it happens in all situations with air leaks.
Verdict
With durability in extreme weather conditions, the tire sealant impresses with its simple and efficient profile.
Pros
- Included application pump
- Durable in extreme temperatures
- Suitable for punctures of up to ½”
- Approved by the US military
Cons
- The larger container needs extra storage space
6. Slime 70005 Safety Spair 7 Minute Flat Tire Repair System
Editor’s Rating:
Not all problems are solved when you inflate the objects. What if it’s a puncture or crack that causes the deflation? You’ll be back at square one if you don’t treat the source of the problem. That’s why this Slime model is a good investment. This is not only an inflator but while you pump in air you’ll also be pushing sealant inside. You can seal holes of up to ¼ inch.
What’s Included? How Does it Work?
This is a 12V inflator and Slime Sealant is provided with you purchase. You simply connect the hose to the tire and the sealant will fill any punctures & set in place. At the same time air is pumped inside to inflate your tire back to normal.
You can opt to use it with or without the sealant though.
Specs and Features
It’s a case of 6.4” x 8.4” x 5.4” which makes it practical to keep in your car at all times. Don’t simply keep it at home because this is what you’ll need after driving through sharp objects and getting a flat tire, leaving you stranded next to the road.
Performance
This model will pump up a standard tire within 7 minutes.
Note that this is not your forever solution. The sealant can help preserve the condition of the tire up to 500 miles by which time you should replace it or have it tended to by a professional. Don’t worry—This sealant doesn’t ruin the tire from inside.
Pros
- Seals and inflates
- Easy to use
- Compact to keep in your car
Cons
- Not as fast or powerful as some models
- Any defects in slimy bottle or texture can cause leakages or prevent setting
7. Plustyre Tire Sealant
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
Made with a distinct formula, the sealant ships in a 350ml bottle. It even includes a small hose which is used to connect the bottle to the valve of the tire. To apply the solution, drivers simply need to squeeze the sealant into the tire. Before doing so, the small connecting hose has to be placed on the tire’s valve. This means that all the air from the tire will come out first. After the sealant has been squeezed into the tire, drivers can add air and inflate the tire back to its normal pressure.
With a compact size, the tire sealant can be stored in the trunk, together with the tire inflation system. Since it won’t expand too much, air might still need to be inserted into the tire and storing both in the trunk at all times is advisable.
Convenient features
Formulated with a distinct feature, the sealant never dries. Even if it is left inside the tire for a long time, it will still not dry out completely. This also means it can easily be removed from the tire when needed. For example, using a bit of water is all it takes for a tire professional to get rid of the sealant before dealing with the puncture.
When it comes to punctures, they can come in multiple places on the tire at the same time. But the sealant can deal with up to 300 punctures on the same tire due to its high-quality formulation. Since it comes with a versatile profile, it acts the same in different tires. It responds instantly on car tires as it does on a bike or ATV tires. It can actually save money to drivers who might already need a versatile product to deal with punctures on all types of tires.
Verdict
With a durable formulation, the sealant is among the long-life products recommended for isolated areas and up to 300 puncture fixes on a tire.
Pros
- Designed with a connecting tube
- Doesn’t dry out completely
- Compatible with nitrogen
- Made with a water-soluble formulation
Cons
- Not available in larger containers
8. Tire Life PSF Plus Puncture Sealing Formula
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
There are two versions of the PSF sealant. The original product is made for low speeds and mainly advisable for other types of vehicles. The PSF Plus formula is specifically made for higher speeds and this is why it’s suitable for car tires.
Made to offer immediate sealing, the sealants show good results with punctures of up to ¼”. This comes as one of the solutions which is comparable to some of the best products on the market and it can be reliable even on the highest-performing tires.
Convenient features
The sealant is applied easily on any tire. It comes as one of the proven solutions for immediate sealing but drivers will need to drive away within 10 – 15 minutes after application. This is required for the sealant to cover the entire diameter of the wheel. It also acts to prevent air loss so that the tire remains its set PSI.
The convenient application of the tire sealant also takes into account the various other materials it can come in contact with. It is why the sealant can actually be used without worrying it will damage the rims of the wheel. Its environmentally-friendly lab-tested formulation allows the sealant to actually be considered for easy cleanup without toxic effects.
Verdict
Suitable for cars traveling at high speeds, the sealant is recommended for highway punctures and sealing within minutes.
Pros
- Made with a lab-tested formula
- Suitable for traveling at high speeds
- Fixed punctures of up to ¼”
- Acts within minutes
Cons
- Applicator not included
9. LiquiTube Tire Sealant
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
Packed in a convenient tube, the sealant is among the most interesting options in its class. It manages to offer plenty of support for those seeking to limit damages done by a puncture by actually trapping the air inside the tire.
Its application is straightforward and apart from locking the air at the point of a puncture, it also works with rim and bead leaks. Representing a more viable option when it comes to sealing punctures while on the road, the sealant is recommended for longer tire life. This actually works by limiting the damages done to the tire by driving with a puncture and with low PSI pressure. Doing so can irremediably damage the tire. This is why most drivers need to use the sealant as soon as they detect a puncture.
Convenient features
Offering permanent seal, the tire sealant stands out with its constant air pressure ensured after application. The product doesn’t actually apply directly over the puncture. In some cases, the puncture is not even visible. But in other cases, objects such as screws or nails can still be found in the tire. In this case, drivers are prompted to remove the obstruction before applying the sealant.
The sealant applies through the tire’s valve, offering a direct response from the inside of the tire, actually locking the air inside it. In some cases, air can be released through the valve during the application as well as through the actual puncture. In both cases, drivers are advised to add sufficient air to reach proper tire PSI pressure.
Verdict
Suitable for preventing and fixing tire punctures, the sealant is recommended to maintain air pressure.
Pros
- Suitable for all tires
- Works with multiple punctures
- Doesn’t impact the tire’s rubber
- Seals bead leaks
Cons
- Needs extra air for rim leaks
10. Multi-Seal Tire Sealant with Kev
Editor’s Rating:
Design features
Since it is actually made with Kevlar fibers, the sealant is extra strong. It might not be needed for the cars cruising city streets, but it can do a lot when it comes to off-road performance, where the pressures applied on the tire come from multiple angles.
It is why the manufacturer actually recommends users choosing their product for vehicles such as those made for off-road performance. Packed in 32-ounce bottles, the sealant is among the reliable products when it comes to practicality as well.
Convenient features
Made with a non-toxic formula, the product impresses with its east application. Since it is made for harsh environments, it is also made to be more durable compared to other tire sealants. Made with ultra-strong Kevlar, the tire sealant prevents up to 95% of flats as well. Since the product is used on large wheels, it can also deal with larger punctures, of up to ½”.
Verdict
The Kevlar-reinforced tire sealant is purely made for the most demanding off-road conditions and Jeep vehicles.
Pros
- More durable than competitor sealants
- Unique Kevlar-reinforced formulation
- Used no latex
- Seals punctures of up to ½”
Cons
- Limited performance on high speeds
FAQ
Can I use a tire sealant myself?
A tire sealant is not complicated to use. Until a professional can attend the tire and its puncture, the driver can apply the sealant with no extra help and no special tools.
My car has expensive tires, is a sealant safe?
The best tire sealants can be used on all types of tires. Winter tire and summer tires are not damaged by tire sealants if these products are made with the right formula.
How long can I drive for after applying a tire sealant?
Driving away with sealant in the tires might come with limited mileage. Most products allow drivers to drive between 100 and 500 miles before the tire would need to be attended by a professional. Tire sealant is mainly made as a temporary solution to a tire puncture.
I have a puncture on the highway, can I drive away after using the tire sealant?
Given that attending a tire on the highway is legal, drivers can still continue their journey with the best sealants as they are actually made for higher speeds with certain formulations.
My tire sealant has no applicator, how can I use it?
If there is no applicator, the tire sealant can still be squeezed in with a small tube or hose, which is often provided by the product’s manufacturer.
Can I use a tire sealant on my kids’ bikes?
Since car tire sealants are generally versatile, they can be used on other vehicles. Used on bikes, they are easy to apply. But the same application process is followed on commercial or agricultural vehicles as well.
How long can I leave the sealant in the tire?
The sealant is in the tire for a maximum of three days or a number of miles with most products. While there are drivers who live it in for longer periods, it is considered a good practice to find the closest tire specialist to deal with the puncture.
Guide to Buying the Best Tire Sealants
Since there are only a handful of reliable tire sealants to consider, drivers might have a hard time deciding on the right action to take. This is why most drivers should actually have the ability to find the right product from the start, as the last thing they need is to find their sealant is not usable when they have a flat tire. The following criteria and advice is a good place to start an informed purchase.
Application procedure
The application procedure is generally similar on most tires. As a general rule, drivers should apply the sealant until the tire is filled or until the container empties. At this point, additional air may need to be blown in to inflate the tires to their normal PSI levels. Furthermore, some tire sealants come with an included inflation kit, where the sealant is replaced as it empties but which allows tires to be inflated when a sealant is inflated.
If the application procedure is somewhat similar, not the same can be said about the type of mixture and how it reacts in time. This is why reading the full instructions is recommended, even if drivers have already used tire sealants before.
Toxicity problems
The problem of toxic car products is an important one. All drivers should strive to purchase non-toxic tire sealants as much as possible. This serves their own health and even the health of their kids as some of these products are often used on family bikes. Luckily, there are a number of manufacturers who offer non-toxic and biodegradable tire sealants.
Suitability for the type of tire
While tire sealants can offer a solution against punctures in most cases, they can also have specific formulations which recommend them for performance in certain situations. For example, a formulation can be suited for driving at higher speeds while another can be suited for driving in off-road conditions. This is why finding a suitable product is recommended. For the average driver, a general sealant can work well.
Adding air to the tire
Adding air to the tires may or may not be recommended. In most cases, drivers can find their own way towards reliable PSI pressure. But most products actually state drivers should consider adding air, especially if a tire deflates completely. Apart from carrying a tire sealant, drivers are recommended to keep an inflation system in their cars at all times as a result.
Adding air to the tire is no different with a tire sealant. The idea is that the sealant stops the air leak and that the tire can get back to its normal PSI range. This range is often printed on the side of the wheel itself, so drivers always know the pressure to strive for. If a tire is not sufficiently inflated, even with the added sealant, it might actually be damaged after a short number of miles.
This is why most tire sealant manufacturers recommend all drivers to inflate the tire sufficiently to lift the rim of the ground as soon as possible in order to avoid permanent damage. In some cases, no inflation is needed, especially with smaller punctures.
Mileage after application
The mileage which is allowed after applying the sealant is generally limited. This limit needs to be abided by as most drivers need to know driving with a sealant can be unsafe after a longer number of miles. There are stories of drivers recalling using tire sealants which forced them to drive at slower speeds, so it is primordial to actually fixe the tire at a specialist above everything else.
Conclusion
The best tire sealants are those which allow users to have their own comfortable experience, especially when having to deal with a puncture, which is never pleasant. This includes characteristics such as having a sealant which acts in seconds, which is easy to apply and which is non-toxic.
Some of the best tire sealants are also made with sustainable formulations. This means that when their job is done, they are actually easily removed with water and disposed of as they are biodegradable. So without impacting the environment, tire sealants can be considered as reliable products for future use. In the conditions in which most new cars come with no spare wheel, these sustainability issues become even more important. An anti-corrosive formulation is also important as drivers have the ability to use the sealant without damaging the tire or other surfaces such as the rims. At the same time, drivers should need no gloves performing the operation as the chosen products should not be harmful to the skin. In most cases, their top formulations are often lab-tested for various certifications.
