Getting a flat tire on an Avis rental car in Montreal is stressful — especially when you’re unsure what’s covered, who to call, or how long help will take.
This quick guide explains how Avis roadside assistance works in Montreal, what renters commonly get charged for, and how to get help fast without making the situation worse.
Does Avis Cover Flat Tires in Canada?
Yes — but it depends on your rental coverage.
Avis offers 24/7 roadside assistance in Canada, including Montreal. However, flat tire service is best covered if you purchased Extended Roadside Assistance at the time of rental.
- With Extended Roadside Assistance, flat tire service, towing, jump starts, lockouts, and fuel delivery are generally covered
- Without it, you may be charged for tire changes or towing
Official source:
👉 https://www.avis.com/content/avis/na/us/en_US/offers/us-offers/extended-roadside-assistance.html
If you’re unsure what coverage you have, always confirm when you call roadside assistance.
What to Do Immediately When You Get a Flat Tire
If you’re dealing with a flat tire on an Avis rental, follow these steps:
1. Get to a Safe Location
Pull over safely or into a parking lot if possible.
2. Call Avis Roadside Assistance (24/7)
📞 1-800-354-2847 (Canada & U.S.)
This is Avis’s official roadside assistance number.
3. Document Everything
Take clear photos of:
- The flat tire
- The wheel
- The surrounding area
This matters more than most renters realize — especially if charges are disputed later.
Common Problems Avis Renters Report
Many renters search this topic after something already went wrong. Based on real customer reports and Reddit discussions, the most common issues include:
- Being charged for a flat tire when coverage wasn’t clearly understood
- Long wait times for roadside dispatch
- Difficulty disputing charges without photo proof
- Being stuck on hold while blocking traffic or in unsafe areas
Example discussions:
- https://www.reddit.com/r/TravelHacks/comments/1qftohs/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/TravelHacks/comments/1ega81h/
Key takeaway: speed and documentation matters with Avis rental in Montreal !
Important Montreal & Quebec-Specific Notes
- Quebec roads (especially winter and pothole season) increase flat-tire risk
- Avis roadside assistance numbers work province-wide, including Montreal
- Credit card insurance often does not cover tire-only damage, despite what many renters assume
If you declined Extended Roadside Assistance and need help right now, delays can quickly cost more than the repair itself.
Can You Use Outside Help Instead of Avis?
You can — but be careful.
If you use an independent roadside service without Avis approval, reimbursement is not guaranteed. Always call Avis roadside assistance first, even if you plan to use outside help.
That said, many renters choose faster local assistance when time or safety matters.
👉 If you’re stuck in Montreal and need immediate tire help, Pneu Patrol provides mobile tire roadside service designed for situations where waiting on hold isn’t an option.
– F.A.Q –
Does Avis roadside assistance cover flat tires?
Yes, especially if you purchased Extended Roadside Assistance. Otherwise, charges may apply. Your car will be towed to the closest garage or a spare tire will be put on to allow you to move, unfortunately the underlying problem will not be fixed since your defect tire will still need to be repaired or replaced. Best case scenario another rental will be provided to you.
What number do I call for Avis roadside help in Canada?
📞 1-800-354-2847 (24/7)
What if I didn’t buy roadside assistance?
You can still get help, but you may be billed. Always document the issue.
Need Help Right Now in Montreal?
If you’re dealing with a flat tire due to a nail or a pothole on an Avis rental in Montreal and need fast, local assistance, don’t wait on hold while your situation gets worse. One of our technician will be dispatched to your location to repair the tire if possible or mount a new tire so you can enjoy your rental without having to drive on a spare or be towed to the closest garage for the same service. You will save in time and piece of mind. We are not affiliated with Avis but we can assist !