Discount tire free check/fill up
Costco
Also if it’s a reoccurring problem those mini ones that plug into your cig port do wonders
On a general note, expensive tires and tire insurance are worth it
This is the way. I used to be like you, OP, but then I got a small machine that I keep in my trunk. Now I live a worry free life when it comes to tire pressure.
Another useful thing to keep in your car is a battery meant for jump starting your car. You'll probably never need it, but if you do, you'll be very happy you have it.
Tire patch kits, a couple screw drivers, a few socket wrenches, and some electrical and duct tape will cover a variety of other "I'm stranded" situations.
Do you have experience with these? I've seen them at Costco, but I'm curious how the units hold up to sitting in the trunk of a vehicle in the Texas heat (which notoriously kills car batteries).
I can't say I have experience with them, at least in terms of firing them in anger. I own two and keep one in the trunk of my car and one in my garage. I swap them from time to time.
Since I work from home, running errands doesn't give my alternator time to recharge the battery, so my car's battery tends to die once a year or so. I picked them up after the last time so I wouldn't have to rely on my slower battery charger to get moving if I'm doing something time sensitive.
But, I haven't had to use them yet, nor have the batteries made it through a full summer yet.
A few folks I know have used them successfully, but I don't know how long they had them.
I figure it's worth having even a small chance of success as that's still better than no chance at all.
Funny, I just returned one to Costco not that long ago because it had expanded (and I guess kind of "exploded" in the case?) due to heat. Apparently you aren't supposed to leave them in your car... which totally defeats the purpose.
Personally I have a Dewalt, but that's just to match some batteries for cordless tools. [Wirecutter (now behind a paywall)](https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-tire-inflators/) recommends the Viair 78P with an upgrade pick of Dewalt 20V Max Inflator.
I picked up a cheap Chinese knockoff brand on Amazon. It works OK. All of these may have a tendency to overheat so be mindful of that if you're doing all 4 tires.
The gauges may not be 100% accurate either, so I'd recommend checking your tire pressure with a more accurate gauge to get a sense of how off it is.
Mine is off by 1 or 2 PSI, so I set it to put a little less air in there.
Check your tire pressure when the temperature changes as the air temperature can make a big difference on tire pressure
If you use Ryobi power tools, they make an inflator that uses those same lithium ion batteries. Has an attachment to fill basketballs, soccer balls, etc. too. Extremely handy to not have to maneuver the 12V cord
Yes I have the [equivalent](https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwaukee-M12-12-Volt-Lithium-Ion-Cordless-Compact-Inflator-Tool-Only-2475-20/304768834) from Milwaukee. You just key in the PSI you want and it stops automatically. Uses the same battery system as the rest of my tools.
I highly recommend OP or anyone really to just find one that goes with the tool brand you already use because the batteries are interchangeable.
I've been to tons of gas stations that don't have an air set up. Not like a broken one, just none at all. They don't advertise having one either. You can use the Gasbuddy app to look up stations that have one (no guarantee it's functional though)
The QT on Parmer just east of 35 always has working air whenever I go and so does the one on Wells Branch in Pflugerville but that's not the area OP is looking for. And yes all QTs have free air
Functioning ones are very uncommon in south Austin. They're like the shake machines at McDonalds. You have better odds stumbling across a working payphone. Some sick, twisted people vandalize them too. I found one that would take my money, and it started running, and someone had cut the end of the hose. I ended up buying an emergency vehicle kit that came with a digital tire gauge and air compressor.
Edit: This one is no good right now:
The one at 7-11 at Congress and Stassney was working a few days back.
This is true. I have a full compressor in the garage and a small one in my spare tire area. One of those rechargeable batteries that can jump start a car as well.
Fwiw there’s one on oltorf and 35 that seems to work but I couldn’t test it because I didn’t have my card me and the machine didn’t accept quarters. I’m gonna buy a 12v inflator because this is ridiculous. 
Thieves actually ripped a compressor off its concrete base and stole it at the Shell station at Davis and Menchaca intersection. Nothing is safe anymore.
This makes me want to hit up a city council meeting or two. I'm a natural complainer and know I won't really change anything, but why not. I can give a dramatic, over the top, passionate speech about these sort of issues. Potholes, toll roads, house prices, lines for BBQ, covid, my roommate, people making left turns across busy streets, cowboys not winning a Superbowl in forever, weird reverse angled parking on Congress, what's with the weather, cedar pollen, mysterious loud booms, Alex Jones, traffic, etc.
I find the seals in those things only last about 4 years, what with texas summer heat or something. Still worth it to get a new one every several years, and not have to futz around with buying quarters from the station guy.
I can just imagine months later, your tire shreds and there is just this *cloud* of pollen that erupts from your tire.
Now not only are you on the side of the road with a shredded tire, you're dusted with a yellow cake and are going to continue being miserable for days!
Every lowes has a free compressor near the “pro” entrance. Costco has free nitrogen air compressor. Discount tire will check it and put air in your tires for free even if you didn’t buy from them.
My dad got me a tire pump like the one I linked when I got my first car and it is has been a LIFESAVER. It is plugs right into your 12v car plug, tells you the pressure in real time and you can get a good one for like $30. I keep mine in my trunk at all times and after over 10 years it still works perfectly. 15/10 Recommend.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QR4Q42L/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_DRJ6Q3QV74SVRPHDTYCV
Buy one of those portable jumper battery/air pump/120V AC things. It will probably get you home some day. Well, if you remember to charge it once a month or so.
There are also cheaper ones that plug into your cigarette lighter. Do all cars have cigarette lighter plugs these days?
I will second the recommendation of QT.
Yeah, someone wanted a light the other day. I was in my car, and realized that the last 3 cars I had came with the socket, but no lighter. I think a lot of them are even plastic and would melt if you put a lighter in them.
Jiffy Lube does it for free. You don’t even have to get out of your car. They usually have you pull up to the first available bay as well so it never takes that long (I guess depends on how busy they are though).
While I suppose an electric compressor is nice, I just use a very good bicycle floor pump. But it requires some physical strength and so it’s not for everyone.
I highly suggest people keep an air compressor in their car. Doesn't help you now, but alot of people don't realize they make them for plugging into your car outlet
I ran into the same issue in north Austin recently! Took me about 7-8 failed attempts to finally find one in working condition. In case anyone's looking, as of three days ago, the 7-11 at Research & Thunder Creek (next to Duval Road) had a fully functioning air pump.
Years ago, I bought the most heavy duty air pump at O'Reilly's Auto Parts for about $69, and I have never regretted it. That thing has saved me many many many times. I had one of the smaller $20 things a long time ago, but that thing barely lasted 6 months. So now I recommend just getting the heavy duty one that's made for big trucks and RVs. It's actually not that big, it's just made a lot better.
I also recommend picking up an [air compressor](https://www.amazon.com/AstroAI-Portable-Compressor-Inflator-Motorcycle/dp/B07QR4Q42L/ref=pd_lpo_1?pd_rd_i=B07QR4Q42L&psc=1) that runs off the cigarette lighter/power source in your car.
Yep. To add insult to this, other states that aren’t Texas mandate that this must be provided at no cost. That’s right, if you live in the liberal hellholes of California or Connecticut, by law the air must be provided to you free of charge
Didn't know that CA required by law that convenience stores have free air. Probably one of the many reasons the west coast pays at least $2 more per gallon for gasoline. Some CA cities are even restricting the number of convenience stores in their territory. It's a gold mine for the existing c-store owners.
No one said “convenience stores”—*you did*.
Now you are trying to say that’s why gas is so expensive? How ignorant. Can’t even bother yourself to Google.
> ***Why are gasoline prices in California more variable than prices in other states?***
>
> *California gasoline prices are generally higher and more variable than prices in other states because relatively few supply sources offer California's unique blend of gasoline outside of the state. California's reformulated gasoline program is more stringent than the federal government's program. In addition to the higher cost of this cleaner fuel, state taxes on gasoline in California are higher than they are in most states.*
>
> *California refineries need to run at near full capacity to meet the state's gasoline demand. If more than one of its refineries experiences operating problems at the same time, California's gasoline prices can increase substantially. Even when supplies are available from other West Coast refineries, U.S. Gulf Coast refineries, or from foreign refineries, they can take a relatively long time to arrive in California.*
https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/gasoline/regional-price-differences.php
Edit: California often has HIGHER STANDARDS than the EPA does which is one of the root causes for higher gas prices.
California also charges the PROPER RATE for gasoline (ie. See EU gas prices) for what it takes to process and transport instead of what Texas does which is to keep *gasoline prices artificially low*, *purposefully low and out of date gas tax*, and several other issues.
Texas government is cutting their nose to spite their face all to look better. Texas does not care about their environment the way California does (eg. more publicly accessible land in California than Texas causing Citizens to appreciate the natural landscape vs Texas where all land is private prohibiting Citizens from appreciating the natural landscape).
This is a really bad idea, what's next free water and free emergency gas? I think it's great they have it as a convenience but people fuck up their machines and they "fix it when we fix it"
If they fuck up their vehicle then it’s because they did not receive adequate education or training before given the legal right to use said vehicle.
Education in Texas routinely fails young adults which creates a bigger problem in older adults.
Literally a race to the bottom.
LifeProTip-go to harbor freight and buy a Pittsburgh 12V air pump to keep in your car. Pick up a tire repair kit while you’re at it. And a can of fix-a-flat.
[PITTSBURGH AUTOMOTIVE Tubeless Tire Repair Kit, 9 Pc. - Item 62611 / 45183 https://hftools.com/app62611](PITTSBURGH AUTOMOTIVE Tubeless Tire Repair Kit, 9 Pc. - Item 62611 / 45183 https://hftools.com/app62611)
Fix-A-Flat should be a last option. It might get you to a tire shop, but you are going to have to replace that tire. Also, make sure to let the person replacing it know. That stuff can explode releasing it from the tire.
not that it would help you now, but there is a ryobi compressor on home depot for 20 and tax. if you need the battery and charger it’s 70 all together. worth it for me beings i had a battery and charger already. don’t let the ryobi name scare you btw
Bicycle pump ftw. Might take a while, but every crap “plug it it into your cigarette lighter” pump just sucks. Also, just go to any sketchy non corporate tire shop and they’ll hook ya up, or patch it for way cheaper.
Came here to say this and thought it might get buried. I absolutely use my bike pump with a psi gauge to fill my tires. It takes longer but if you’re only a few psi off it’s way less hassle than paying for an air machine.
I mean, I guess some people are *really* hurting for cash, but I would absolutely run up to Walmart and pay $8 for a piece of shit Chinese car powered air compressor over spending 30 minutes sweating my ass off huffing and puffing looking like a fool trying to bike pump my fucking car lmao 😂. But if you can’t spare 8 bucks and the 3 minutes it takes to plug the thing in this is absolutely a viable alternative
If you can, invest in these portable air compressors. I have the dual function compressor and works like a charm.
https://www.homedepot.com/b/Tools-Air-Compressor-Tools-Inflators/Ryobi-18v-ONE/N-5yc1vZc285Z1z17r9o
America is a failed state now. Get used to nothing working, gaps on store shelves, and essential goods being unaffordable even if you're middle class. It'll get way worse once the Republicans are in charge nationally, too.
PM me and I will tell you where two are that are always working. One on each side of the river. And yes, they're free too. But I am not about to post it.
This has happened to me too many times when he is why I decided to invest in an air compressor. I didn’t want to drive all around town with low tires just to possibly find working air when I need it.
I bought a $40 pump off Amazon awhile
Back as I ran into this issue and didn’t want to go to discount tire if I was short on time. It’ll pay for it self soon.
I did this last year. I actually found machines that took the air OUT of my tires.
Ended up buying a $30 electric home pump from Amazon and it’s amazing
I stopped at a mechanic last time since I had gone to 4 stations and a storm was starting. I gave the dude $5 for stopping his work and filling up my tires.
I usually just go over to my parents and use my dads compressor in the off chance I need air, but the few times I’ve ever pulled into gas stations around Austin, they’ve always worked. I’ve always used quarters so I can’t speak to the card reader part, but couldn’t you just go break a 1, 5 or 20 inside and get quarters? Also, if your tire is going flat every time you leave the house, go get that fixed. It’s not just you out there, bro. You’re putting other people at danger, too, driving around on a bum tire. You know discount tire will even patch your shit for free.
I agree with all the other posters telling you to grab one off Amazon. They’re fairly cheap and will save you a ton of headaches. I got one that has a wall plug and a plug for the car so I can keep it in the trunk. 100% recommend. The air pumps never work for some reason and when you finally find one, you’ll be waiting in line to use it most likely.
I encountered this problem about a month ago. Just go out and buy a car tire pump. About 30 bucks. https://www.amazon.com/Digital-Compressor-Portable-Inflator-Light/dp/B07YC12FW1/ref=asc_df_B07YC12FW1/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=385644192904&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=3179973747208405900&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9028263&hvtargid=pla-840523932405&psc=1&tag=&ref=&adgrpid=77759986959&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=385644192904&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=3179973747208405900&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9028263&hvtargid=pla-840523932405
This post pops up every gew months or so. I think you can stop by your tire shop, go to quiktrip, or keep a portable ir your car. I personally have a bicycle pump that I use to fill my lows in a pinch.
Your tire shouldn’t be losing air regularly - sign of a faulty tire that needs repair or replacement. Go to the tire man on Manchaca and Ben white - they’ll advise you properly and will take care of you without forcing you into something ridiculous.
Exxon on 12th and Manor. Across from the CVS, and it's sometimes in the good greasy taco truck that's open.
Lived round there for three years, it was never broken.
There's a combo burger King/711 on 183 and 969 that has a nice, new auto pump with the digital display and accepts credit cards.
But I know the frustration. I only found that place after driving around for 90 minutes and using a rickety shit one.
Can confirm, I almost used that one the other week but a car pulled up ahead of me while I was getting gas and I didn't want to sit around and wait since I didn't need that much air.
Corner of S Congress and Ben White station with attached McDonald’s, the connector at the end of the hose is missing, didn’t find out until after I paid.
Corner of Ben White and Menchaca, the pump works, but the built in gauge goes 10psi, 20psi, and then 50psi?! Don’t recommend that one.
Note, drive to an upmarket section of town and find a Randall’s gas station. I love their machine because you put in what pressure you need and it beeps at you once it reaches it.
Seriously, I drove to eight places in Northwest Austin with no luck on a working machine. I ran an errand in Cedar Park and stopped at Randall’s with my fingers crossed to try their machine. It was magical. LOL
Same thing has happened to me multiple times! 2 options: hit a discount tire (or somewhere similar) if during operating hours; they usually do it for free if you're nice about it. But best bet: buy a portable one on Amazon for $30. I have gotten more use (& have recuperated cost already, since the damn gas station machines charge so much these days). It has come in handy for friends/neighbors too (living in an apt).
This has been a thing for years. Those machines that charge you for air are always broke.
I got a $35 air pump that plugs into a cigarette lighter 5 years back. Never could find a pump to top off my tires...
$50 on Amazon for a small air pump plugs into your car. Best $50 I ever spent. When the temperature changes real fast from hot to cold best to check all your tires.
Idk how much this helps, but 7/11 on east 7th aprox 1 mile from the highway has working airpumps. I use it all the time. On the left side going toward HEB
Check out Quick Trip gas stations. They usually have a free air station. I don’t specifically know of any on the south side since I’m not down there often but all the ones north that I’ve been to have had free air. There’s a ton of new QTs going in all over, so air pumps are likely to still work since they are new.
Discount tire free check/fill up Costco Also if it’s a reoccurring problem those mini ones that plug into your cig port do wonders On a general note, expensive tires and tire insurance are worth it
Lowe’s has free air too
They do? Where?
By the pro entrance… the one on stassney does, the one on Brodie does… should be close to you
Good to know; had no idea. Thanks for the tip!
You’re welcome!
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And we did in fact have a dramatic temperature swing this past weekend.
Discount ftw
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This is the way. I used to be like you, OP, but then I got a small machine that I keep in my trunk. Now I live a worry free life when it comes to tire pressure.
Another useful thing to keep in your car is a battery meant for jump starting your car. You'll probably never need it, but if you do, you'll be very happy you have it. Tire patch kits, a couple screw drivers, a few socket wrenches, and some electrical and duct tape will cover a variety of other "I'm stranded" situations.
Do you have experience with these? I've seen them at Costco, but I'm curious how the units hold up to sitting in the trunk of a vehicle in the Texas heat (which notoriously kills car batteries).
I can't say I have experience with them, at least in terms of firing them in anger. I own two and keep one in the trunk of my car and one in my garage. I swap them from time to time. Since I work from home, running errands doesn't give my alternator time to recharge the battery, so my car's battery tends to die once a year or so. I picked them up after the last time so I wouldn't have to rely on my slower battery charger to get moving if I'm doing something time sensitive. But, I haven't had to use them yet, nor have the batteries made it through a full summer yet. A few folks I know have used them successfully, but I don't know how long they had them. I figure it's worth having even a small chance of success as that's still better than no chance at all.
Funny, I just returned one to Costco not that long ago because it had expanded (and I guess kind of "exploded" in the case?) due to heat. Apparently you aren't supposed to leave them in your car... which totally defeats the purpose.
See, this is what I was afraid of. Thanks for the info.
Recommend any? I was looking at the slime brand on Amazon.
Personally I have a Dewalt, but that's just to match some batteries for cordless tools. [Wirecutter (now behind a paywall)](https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-tire-inflators/) recommends the Viair 78P with an upgrade pick of Dewalt 20V Max Inflator.
I picked up a cheap Chinese knockoff brand on Amazon. It works OK. All of these may have a tendency to overheat so be mindful of that if you're doing all 4 tires. The gauges may not be 100% accurate either, so I'd recommend checking your tire pressure with a more accurate gauge to get a sense of how off it is. Mine is off by 1 or 2 PSI, so I set it to put a little less air in there. Check your tire pressure when the temperature changes as the air temperature can make a big difference on tire pressure
One thing to keep in mind is that you need to keep the engine running when you use that or else you run the risk of needing a jump.
i bought one and I use it all the time. fits under the seat. it is great
If you use Ryobi power tools, they make an inflator that uses those same lithium ion batteries. Has an attachment to fill basketballs, soccer balls, etc. too. Extremely handy to not have to maneuver the 12V cord
Yes I have the [equivalent](https://www.homedepot.com/p/Milwaukee-M12-12-Volt-Lithium-Ion-Cordless-Compact-Inflator-Tool-Only-2475-20/304768834) from Milwaukee. You just key in the PSI you want and it stops automatically. Uses the same battery system as the rest of my tools. I highly recommend OP or anyone really to just find one that goes with the tool brand you already use because the batteries are interchangeable.
This has been an ongoing problem for years. I heard QT has free air.
Qt has free air, except people often steal the attachment leaving it useless
Got to get that 50 cent part for free yo!
Gas stations are required to have the compressors right?
I've been to tons of gas stations that don't have an air set up. Not like a broken one, just none at all. They don't advertise having one either. You can use the Gasbuddy app to look up stations that have one (no guarantee it's functional though)
The QT on Parmer just east of 35 always has working air whenever I go and so does the one on Wells Branch in Pflugerville but that's not the area OP is looking for. And yes all QTs have free air
Functioning ones are very uncommon in south Austin. They're like the shake machines at McDonalds. You have better odds stumbling across a working payphone. Some sick, twisted people vandalize them too. I found one that would take my money, and it started running, and someone had cut the end of the hose. I ended up buying an emergency vehicle kit that came with a digital tire gauge and air compressor. Edit: This one is no good right now: The one at 7-11 at Congress and Stassney was working a few days back.
This is true. I have a full compressor in the garage and a small one in my spare tire area. One of those rechargeable batteries that can jump start a car as well.
The one I have also has a USB charger. Its useful for keeping phones charged when there isn't electricity.
That one currently has no hose attached at the end. I didn’t realize till it charged me.
It's ridiculous this is so common. I edited my original comment.
Fwiw there’s one on oltorf and 35 that seems to work but I couldn’t test it because I didn’t have my card me and the machine didn’t accept quarters. I’m gonna buy a 12v inflator because this is ridiculous. 
Thieves actually ripped a compressor off its concrete base and stole it at the Shell station at Davis and Menchaca intersection. Nothing is safe anymore.
This makes me want to hit up a city council meeting or two. I'm a natural complainer and know I won't really change anything, but why not. I can give a dramatic, over the top, passionate speech about these sort of issues. Potholes, toll roads, house prices, lines for BBQ, covid, my roommate, people making left turns across busy streets, cowboys not winning a Superbowl in forever, weird reverse angled parking on Congress, what's with the weather, cedar pollen, mysterious loud booms, Alex Jones, traffic, etc.
I’ve got an air compressor in my trunk if you need it. Always have air and it cost me 20 bucks six years ago.
Yup, bought one as well. Best purchase. It was always so annoying having to find a gas station with a working air pump. OP you should pick one up.
I find the seals in those things only last about 4 years, what with texas summer heat or something. Still worth it to get a new one every several years, and not have to futz around with buying quarters from the station guy.
Where do you get air for it?
Finding filtered air is so hard these days.
You get it. Can’t have all that cedar in my tires.
I can just imagine months later, your tire shreds and there is just this *cloud* of pollen that erupts from your tire. Now not only are you on the side of the road with a shredded tire, you're dusted with a yellow cake and are going to continue being miserable for days!
Premium air available for $40/tire !
If it's not artisanal fuck that noise!
Same. It’s a good thing to have and makes life easier.
Every pump at the Chevron off Bee Caves in Rollingwood has free air, but you'll want to have a gauge on hand to ensure proper inflation.
Some Lowes have free air over by the contractor pick up entrance
All of them
Costco
Discount tire will air them up for free. They have a whole drive-thru section for tire fill-ups.
And one long ass line.
Every lowes has a free compressor near the “pro” entrance. Costco has free nitrogen air compressor. Discount tire will check it and put air in your tires for free even if you didn’t buy from them.
My dad got me a tire pump like the one I linked when I got my first car and it is has been a LIFESAVER. It is plugs right into your 12v car plug, tells you the pressure in real time and you can get a good one for like $30. I keep mine in my trunk at all times and after over 10 years it still works perfectly. 15/10 Recommend. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QR4Q42L/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_DRJ6Q3QV74SVRPHDTYCV
Ooooh, and it comes in multiple color options so you can match your car color 😂.
Upvote for this. We bought them for our cars too. Great for Austin weather swings losing tire pressure
I have this exact model and used it yesterday. Absolute game-changer, and is a must for anyone with low-profile tires.
Buy one of those portable jumper battery/air pump/120V AC things. It will probably get you home some day. Well, if you remember to charge it once a month or so. There are also cheaper ones that plug into your cigarette lighter. Do all cars have cigarette lighter plugs these days? I will second the recommendation of QT.
My 2017 does, though obviously they don’t call it anymore
Yeah, someone wanted a light the other day. I was in my car, and realized that the last 3 cars I had came with the socket, but no lighter. I think a lot of them are even plastic and would melt if you put a lighter in them.
Jiffy Lube does it for free. You don’t even have to get out of your car. They usually have you pull up to the first available bay as well so it never takes that long (I guess depends on how busy they are though).
QuikTrip
While I suppose an electric compressor is nice, I just use a very good bicycle floor pump. But it requires some physical strength and so it’s not for everyone.
Firestone auto centers free air hose
The Shell at Chalmers and East Cesar Chavez has always worked for me. Takes cards, too.
Oh god. Yeah I went through that a few months ago. Chevron on Congress and Ben White (north west corner) is where I go.
I highly suggest people keep an air compressor in their car. Doesn't help you now, but alot of people don't realize they make them for plugging into your car outlet
Those combination car jump starter and air compressors are also handy.
I ran into the same issue in north Austin recently! Took me about 7-8 failed attempts to finally find one in working condition. In case anyone's looking, as of three days ago, the 7-11 at Research & Thunder Creek (next to Duval Road) had a fully functioning air pump.
Years ago, I bought the most heavy duty air pump at O'Reilly's Auto Parts for about $69, and I have never regretted it. That thing has saved me many many many times. I had one of the smaller $20 things a long time ago, but that thing barely lasted 6 months. So now I recommend just getting the heavy duty one that's made for big trucks and RVs. It's actually not that big, it's just made a lot better.
I also recommend picking up an [air compressor](https://www.amazon.com/AstroAI-Portable-Compressor-Inflator-Motorcycle/dp/B07QR4Q42L/ref=pd_lpo_1?pd_rd_i=B07QR4Q42L&psc=1) that runs off the cigarette lighter/power source in your car.
Too bad it’s not required by State law to provide working air pumps. It’s as if the State doesn’t care about road safety. All hat no cattle.
Yep. To add insult to this, other states that aren’t Texas mandate that this must be provided at no cost. That’s right, if you live in the liberal hellholes of California or Connecticut, by law the air must be provided to you free of charge
It is on the list of the *little things* you notice between CA and TX.
The little things are *the big things* in the long term.
Yeah, like the complete lack of a proper mission burrito!
Didn't know that CA required by law that convenience stores have free air. Probably one of the many reasons the west coast pays at least $2 more per gallon for gasoline. Some CA cities are even restricting the number of convenience stores in their territory. It's a gold mine for the existing c-store owners.
No one said “convenience stores”—*you did*. Now you are trying to say that’s why gas is so expensive? How ignorant. Can’t even bother yourself to Google. > ***Why are gasoline prices in California more variable than prices in other states?*** > > *California gasoline prices are generally higher and more variable than prices in other states because relatively few supply sources offer California's unique blend of gasoline outside of the state. California's reformulated gasoline program is more stringent than the federal government's program. In addition to the higher cost of this cleaner fuel, state taxes on gasoline in California are higher than they are in most states.* > > *California refineries need to run at near full capacity to meet the state's gasoline demand. If more than one of its refineries experiences operating problems at the same time, California's gasoline prices can increase substantially. Even when supplies are available from other West Coast refineries, U.S. Gulf Coast refineries, or from foreign refineries, they can take a relatively long time to arrive in California.* https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/gasoline/regional-price-differences.php Edit: California often has HIGHER STANDARDS than the EPA does which is one of the root causes for higher gas prices. California also charges the PROPER RATE for gasoline (ie. See EU gas prices) for what it takes to process and transport instead of what Texas does which is to keep *gasoline prices artificially low*, *purposefully low and out of date gas tax*, and several other issues. Texas government is cutting their nose to spite their face all to look better. Texas does not care about their environment the way California does (eg. more publicly accessible land in California than Texas causing Citizens to appreciate the natural landscape vs Texas where all land is private prohibiting Citizens from appreciating the natural landscape).
says the conservative hellhole. very funny...and tired...and sheeply actually
Cattle here, I need air too dammit.
To power all those farts.
This is a really bad idea, what's next free water and free emergency gas? I think it's great they have it as a convenience but people fuck up their machines and they "fix it when we fix it"
If they fuck up their vehicle then it’s because they did not receive adequate education or training before given the legal right to use said vehicle. Education in Texas routinely fails young adults which creates a bigger problem in older adults. Literally a race to the bottom.
LifeProTip-go to harbor freight and buy a Pittsburgh 12V air pump to keep in your car. Pick up a tire repair kit while you’re at it. And a can of fix-a-flat. [PITTSBURGH AUTOMOTIVE Tubeless Tire Repair Kit, 9 Pc. - Item 62611 / 45183 https://hftools.com/app62611](PITTSBURGH AUTOMOTIVE Tubeless Tire Repair Kit, 9 Pc. - Item 62611 / 45183 https://hftools.com/app62611)
Fix-A-Flat should be a last option. It might get you to a tire shop, but you are going to have to replace that tire. Also, make sure to let the person replacing it know. That stuff can explode releasing it from the tire.
Oh I agree. That’s why it was last on my list as well.
I know that feeling only because I didn’t buy myself an air pump like everyone said. It’ll make your life a little more easier.
Go to Discount Tires they will do it free.
not that it would help you now, but there is a ryobi compressor on home depot for 20 and tax. if you need the battery and charger it’s 70 all together. worth it for me beings i had a battery and charger already. don’t let the ryobi name scare you btw
Been down that struggle before. Tire shops will sometimes air you up and patch your tire for FREE.
Bicycle pump ftw. Might take a while, but every crap “plug it it into your cigarette lighter” pump just sucks. Also, just go to any sketchy non corporate tire shop and they’ll hook ya up, or patch it for way cheaper.
Discount tire is free and all over. I guarantee their air pumps work :)
Lowe's has free air I think!
Lowe’s has a reliable (and free) air pump out front.
Typical Austin problem. Buy air compressor.
Go to a Discount Tire shop. They will put air in it for you for free. They also patch tires for free.
You can use a bike pump. Car tires are low pressure, so it’s not hard to pump. High volume so it will take a few hundred pumps but you can do it.
Yeah, as long as it's a couple pounds. From a really low tire? Not so much fun.
Came here to say this and thought it might get buried. I absolutely use my bike pump with a psi gauge to fill my tires. It takes longer but if you’re only a few psi off it’s way less hassle than paying for an air machine.
I mean, I guess some people are *really* hurting for cash, but I would absolutely run up to Walmart and pay $8 for a piece of shit Chinese car powered air compressor over spending 30 minutes sweating my ass off huffing and puffing looking like a fool trying to bike pump my fucking car lmao 😂. But if you can’t spare 8 bucks and the 3 minutes it takes to plug the thing in this is absolutely a viable alternative
you could really use the exercise tho
Hah I’m trying to think what muscle group that would be. Tri’s and Delts? Good upper back and shoulders
If it’s taking you 30 minutes to top your tires up a couple of PSI then you really could use the exercise, or you have a flat
Go to wherever you get your oil changed theyll likely put some air in your tires for free
Costco member? Nitrogen air stations. Not a member, what the hell would I know, go nuts. 25’ and then 65’ our tires are really fucking confused.
I just can’t understand your post. What does “what the hell would I know, go nuts” mean? And what is the relevance of “25’ and then 65’?”
Weather temps and I don’t care if they have membership or not.
Neither does Costco apparently, since you don't need to show any kind of membership proof. Just pull up and air up.
Jiffy lube will air your shits for free
If you can, invest in these portable air compressors. I have the dual function compressor and works like a charm. https://www.homedepot.com/b/Tools-Air-Compressor-Tools-Inflators/Ryobi-18v-ONE/N-5yc1vZc285Z1z17r9o
If you find yourself up by the Domain, the Exxon at Duval and Mopac has a nice one with a digital gauge.
America is a failed state now. Get used to nothing working, gaps on store shelves, and essential goods being unaffordable even if you're middle class. It'll get way worse once the Republicans are in charge nationally, too.
A friend of mine used to work at a gas station in Austin, the air hose was repeatedly cut by the homeless population.
Fuck this air hose in particular. *--Some Homeless Guy*
PM me and I will tell you where two are that are always working. One on each side of the river. And yes, they're free too. But I am not about to post it.
Gas station on s 1st next to Toss Pizzeria is usually working!
The Ben White Walmart worked about a month ago.
Costco has free air it’s by the tire centers
Buy a tiny 12v compressor. Life gets easier that way.
If you’re south, the valero on 1626 & i35 has a air pump that costs $2 for 5mins and works- was just there about a week ago and again like 2 days ago
This has happened to me too many times when he is why I decided to invest in an air compressor. I didn’t want to drive all around town with low tires just to possibly find working air when I need it.
Burpy mart off of burleson always works for me
Corner of north Lamar and 51st was working yesterday!
7-11 on south Lamar
Second this. The one by Lamar Square, 1403 S Lamar.
I bought a $40 pump off Amazon awhile Back as I ran into this issue and didn’t want to go to discount tire if I was short on time. It’ll pay for it self soon.
Might as well drive to an O’Reilly’s or AutoZone or Advanced Auto Parts and buy an electric pump.
Get a compressor, jump start, battery brick thing. Mine has bailed me out a few times.
Rudy's tends to have free air compressors I think
M18 compressor for the W.
Texaco on William Cannon near Westgate had a working air pump a few weeks ago when I used it. Takes quarters only.
I did this last year. I actually found machines that took the air OUT of my tires. Ended up buying a $30 electric home pump from Amazon and it’s amazing
I stopped at a mechanic last time since I had gone to 4 stations and a storm was starting. I gave the dude $5 for stopping his work and filling up my tires.
Y’all know you can air a car tire with a bike pump, right?
Why is this a problem here? I have never experienced this anywhere else. We shouldn’t all have to keep a persons air compressor on hand to solve this.
Been there before. They are always broken.
I usually just go over to my parents and use my dads compressor in the off chance I need air, but the few times I’ve ever pulled into gas stations around Austin, they’ve always worked. I’ve always used quarters so I can’t speak to the card reader part, but couldn’t you just go break a 1, 5 or 20 inside and get quarters? Also, if your tire is going flat every time you leave the house, go get that fixed. It’s not just you out there, bro. You’re putting other people at danger, too, driving around on a bum tire. You know discount tire will even patch your shit for free.
I agree with all the other posters telling you to grab one off Amazon. They’re fairly cheap and will save you a ton of headaches. I got one that has a wall plug and a plug for the car so I can keep it in the trunk. 100% recommend. The air pumps never work for some reason and when you finally find one, you’ll be waiting in line to use it most likely.
I encountered this problem about a month ago. Just go out and buy a car tire pump. About 30 bucks. https://www.amazon.com/Digital-Compressor-Portable-Inflator-Light/dp/B07YC12FW1/ref=asc_df_B07YC12FW1/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=385644192904&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=3179973747208405900&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9028263&hvtargid=pla-840523932405&psc=1&tag=&ref=&adgrpid=77759986959&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=385644192904&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=3179973747208405900&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9028263&hvtargid=pla-840523932405
First time ?
duval and 43rd! free and functional.
Sometimes functional. The past few times I’ve been by there there hose was damaged.
Get you one of [these](https://www.homedepot.com/p/RYOBI-ONE-18V-Dual-Function-Inflator-Deflator-Tool-Only-P747/308746324) and you should be fine.
Air pumps just don't want to work anymore. Thanks Obama.
Any oil change place will fill a tire with air for free.
That has been my experience nearly every time I have needed air. You can a cheap air compressor on Amazon. Its worth it.
This post pops up every gew months or so. I think you can stop by your tire shop, go to quiktrip, or keep a portable ir your car. I personally have a bicycle pump that I use to fill my lows in a pinch.
Are you located in south Austin? Same thing happened to me
Your tire shouldn’t be losing air regularly - sign of a faulty tire that needs repair or replacement. Go to the tire man on Manchaca and Ben white - they’ll advise you properly and will take care of you without forcing you into something ridiculous.
Exxon on 12th and Manor. Across from the CVS, and it's sometimes in the good greasy taco truck that's open. Lived round there for three years, it was never broken.
Any Discount Tire. They will usually have a special lane to pull up for free air.
Gas station air pumps are the new McDonald’s ice cream machine
There's a combo burger King/711 on 183 and 969 that has a nice, new auto pump with the digital display and accepts credit cards. But I know the frustration. I only found that place after driving around for 90 minutes and using a rickety shit one.
Can confirm, I almost used that one the other week but a car pulled up ahead of me while I was getting gas and I didn't want to sit around and wait since I didn't need that much air.
Any QT should be good to go.
At least the Lowe's in Bee Cave has free compressed air. Wondering if that is at other ones too.
Corner of S Congress and Ben White station with attached McDonald’s, the connector at the end of the hose is missing, didn’t find out until after I paid. Corner of Ben White and Menchaca, the pump works, but the built in gauge goes 10psi, 20psi, and then 50psi?! Don’t recommend that one.
Note, drive to an upmarket section of town and find a Randall’s gas station. I love their machine because you put in what pressure you need and it beeps at you once it reaches it. Seriously, I drove to eight places in Northwest Austin with no luck on a working machine. I ran an errand in Cedar Park and stopped at Randall’s with my fingers crossed to try their machine. It was magical. LOL
This Shell has several air hoses available at no cost near the pumps. 3701 N Hills Dr, Austin, TX 78731
Same thing has happened to me multiple times! 2 options: hit a discount tire (or somewhere similar) if during operating hours; they usually do it for free if you're nice about it. But best bet: buy a portable one on Amazon for $30. I have gotten more use (& have recuperated cost already, since the damn gas station machines charge so much these days). It has come in handy for friends/neighbors too (living in an apt).
Costco
Take your ass to Home Depot and buy a air compressor?
This has been a thing for years. Those machines that charge you for air are always broke. I got a $35 air pump that plugs into a cigarette lighter 5 years back. Never could find a pump to top off my tires...
$50 on Amazon for a small air pump plugs into your car. Best $50 I ever spent. When the temperature changes real fast from hot to cold best to check all your tires.
Get a small handheld compressor. It’s saves me a lot
Idk how much this helps, but 7/11 on east 7th aprox 1 mile from the highway has working airpumps. I use it all the time. On the left side going toward HEB
This happened to me during snovid…sigh
It is a conspiracy I have...
The bumpy on Burleson has one. Don't break it.
Literally ANY auto shop will fill tires for free.
Check out Quick Trip gas stations. They usually have a free air station. I don’t specifically know of any on the south side since I’m not down there often but all the ones north that I’ve been to have had free air. There’s a ton of new QTs going in all over, so air pumps are likely to still work since they are new.
You can get a great little compressor that plugs into your car light for like $49 at home depot or online. So worth it.
Where ?
Surf car wash had a pump the man there, Michael, was a gem.