Do car rental companies repair/replace flat tires

i rented a car I march 2009 while on vacation. I had a flat tire and did not take their roadside insurance. I had to replace the tire on my own. I would like to know if this is standard policy. I am looking at rental cars for another vacation.

Why would they offer "roadside insurance" if the service is available free? Competing companies seldom have "standard policies." Next time, shop around and ask. If you have to change the tire, what happens if the engine or transmission goes bad?

If you have a car club membership like Better World or AAA or something through your car insurance, check with them to see if they cover rentals with your policy. The credit card I use most often for travel covers roadside on rentals automatically if I pay for the rental with that card. Check to see if any of your cards offer that service as well.

Definitely shop the rental companies to see who offers what... and see who you can talk into a free upgrade for a nicer car or added perks like roadside.