TIRES: Repair vs. Replace

Here at Link Automotive, we take your tire health seriously

Tire punctures and flats may come at the worst possible time, but it doesn’t mean you automatically need to buy a new tire. With the right tire conditions, a tire repair will be just as efficient.

Puncture Size

You can accidentally drive over all kinds of road debris, like nails, screws, glass, etc. As a result, the tire might be punctured and spring a leak. Consider that puncture size in the tire tread before rushing to your nearest tire dealer. The tire repair techs at Link Automotive in Charleston, WV are able to get you back on the road with a quick and complete tire repair. However, any tire with a puncture larger than a quarter-inch should be replaced. 

Puncture Location

Regardless of the possibility of repairing a tire, vehicle owners should always be thinking safety first. That’s how Link Automotive treats all of its tire repair and maintenance services. Typically, any tire punctures that are located on the tire tread, and smaller than a quarter-inch, can be repaired. However,  any tire with a tire puncture located on the wall of the tire should be replaced. Driving a tire in that condition is dangerous.

Keep in mind that it’s possible to have two or more punctures in your tire tread at once. Even that doesn’t have to stop you from getting your tire repaired, instead of replacing it. But safety is most important, so you need to make sure the punctures are located far enough apart from each other. Any punctures in your tire’s tread need to be located as least 16-inches apart. If not, then the tire should be replaced. 

HOW TO QUICK-FIX YOUR FLAT

If you do not have the time or means to get to a repair shop or a tire retailer, you can actually perform a temporary fix yourself. This solution isn’t meant to be permanent, but it should keep you safe on the road in the meantime. However, you should find a permanent fix as soon as possible. 

Tools: Tool for needling in puncture, Silicone Lubricant Spray, Tire Repair Refills, Scissors.

1. The first step is to find the puncture. If the nail or screw is still in the tire, then you know exactly where the leak is coming from and you can remove it. But if you’re having trouble finding the puncture, you can submerge the tire in a tub of water. Air bubbles should identify the location of the puncture. 
2. Use the needling tool to expand the hole, making room so that you can insert the tire repair refills
3. Spray the silicone lubricant spray on the tread, over the area around the tire puncture
4. Take a piece of the tire repair refills over the hole in the tire, and insert it into the puncture using the needling tool. Keep pushing down until half of the refill is securely in the hole.  
5. Use the scissors to cut down the remaining refill piece that’s hanging outside the tire.

Need to stop in for maintenance or vehicle repair? Here at Link Automotive, we’d love to help. Schedule your vehicle appointment in the form below.

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