Is my tire even repairable? How can I save a damaged tire?

Getting a flat tire is never an enjoyable experience, particularly considering the hefty cost of replacements. A few helpful tips will get you back on the road safely with less hassle.

A tire change leaves millions in need of roadside assistance each year. The fate of your tire is dependent upon the location of the puncture and the severity of the inflicted damage. Is my tire even repairable? Look for a mendable puncture by:

• Examining the tread of your tire as opposed to just the tire sidewall,
• Ensuring the puncture diameter is no larger than one-quarter of an inch,
• Seeing if the puncture is in the same area as any other damage or repairs,
• Following official state guidelines that say when a tire should be replaced.

When deemed repairable, a tire is changed quite easily by a professional. The process should take around one to one and a half hours; here is how it is done:

• Removal of the tire from the wheel’s rim.
• Inspection of internal and external surfaces for damage.
• If the tire is fit for repair, then the area surrounding the puncture is trimmed to remove any damaged material.
• A rubber stem is pulled through the puncture area from the inside outwards to seal off the hole; the area is then buffed up and a vulcanizing glue is applied.

• A reaction via the application of a patch seals any hole in the inner lining of the puncture area.
• The tire is tested for leaks by refitting and inflating to the correct pressure.

Check out our full tire replacement guide

Unfortunately, your tire may be beyond the point of repair if the damage is severe or in a certain location. If your tire falls within any of the guidelines below, then you’ll need a replacement.

Location 

Ø  If your tire has a puncture in the shoulder or sidewall area, then it is beyond repair.

Ø  Effective repairs can only be made on the crown area of the tire. This is the center of the tread, with 1 to 1.5 inches on either side of each shoulder.

Size 

Ø  A tire injury can only be repaired if it is no larger than one-quarter of an inch.

Ø  If you receive a puncture larger than this diameter, you must find a replacement.

Sidewall bubbles or bulges 

Ø  Potholes, curbs, or other hazards commonly create unrepairable damage.

Ø  Visible bulges or bubbles in the tire’s sidewall pose a huge risk; replace immediately.

Wondering about tire plugs? Tire plugs are quick fixes that expand within the damaged area of the tire to stop air from leaking out. Though they may stop the leak initially, tire plugs are not recommended as a long-term solution.

When tires are improperly repaired, the driver and others on the road suffer an avoidable risk. If there are any questions then contact your local tire professionals for support. Blowouts are, however, bound to happen. AuXcar is available any time of the day or night to stranded motorists. One-touch on the handy app puts you in touch with a range of specialists within the area. Available on any Apple or Android device, auXcar is the future of breakdown assistance.