Patch, Plug, or Replace? A Guide to Tire Repairs

Bad tire? Don't wait too long to address the problem and implement the right fix.

Contrary to what you may think, a bad tire doesn't always mean that you'll always have to shell out money for a replacement. Depending on the severity of the damage, many tires can be patched or plugged and perform like new.

Think of this post as a tire repair guide to learn more about when it makes sense to patch, when a plug will work, and when you might need to consider a replacement. Read on to learn more or contact your local shop in the GreatWater network today for more information:

When to Choose a Tire Patch

Tire patches are effective, efficient repairs for certain damage. Specifically, they're best utilized when the puncture is less than a quarter-inch in diameter and located somewhere in the tire tread. Punctures near the sidewall, even if they're less than a quarter-inch in size, likely won't be successfully repaired with a patch.

One nice thing about tire patches is that they're a long-term repair solution. If the patch is properly applied, the repair will likely last for as long as you have the tire. And while you can install a patch yourself via a do-it-yourself kit, we suggest having it professionally installed to ensure the best results. 

The Benefits of Using a Tire Plug

Unlike tire patches, which represent a long-term tire fix, tire plugs are an ideal short-term fix until you can bring your vehicle in for professional service. Like patches, plugs are best for punctures that are less than a quarter-inch in diameter. To plug a tire puncture, you'll simply insert a string from the plug into the hole, which will then expand and seal the puncture from the inside.

Plugs are ideal for situations when you experience a tire issue while you're driving and need to get back on the road quickly. However, it's important to remember that they're only a temporary solution and you must be able to locate the puncture to administer it.

In some cases, drivers may plug a tire and then the tire may be patched when they take it in for service.

In any case, your local shop in the GreatWater network will inspect and possibly patch or plug your tire for free depending on the severity of the damage. 

When Tire Replacement Is the Best Option

There are various situations when a plug or a patch simply won't work and replacement is necessary. Such situations include:

• When damage is more than a quarter-inch in diameter.
• If there's damage around the sidewall.
• If there's visible bubbling or cracks in the tire.
• If the tire tread is at or below 2/32" or tread bars are showing.
• If your tires are more than 10 years old, regardless of the severity of the damage.

If you have any questions about whether replacing your tire is the best option - whether it's showing signs of damage or not - contact us today to schedule an appointment.

How Tire Damage Affects Your Vehicle

While tire damage can have an impact on fuel economy and the longevity of your tires and other vehicle components, its biggest impact is on safety. If you're driving a vehicle with damaged tires, its handling, stability, and braking are all likely to be significantly impacted, posing a risk to you and everyone else that you're sharing the road with. Damaged tires can also lead to an increased risk of a tire blowout, which can also pose a significant safety hazard.

Additionally, damaged tires are more likely to result in poor fuel economy, and they may accelerate wear and tear on other vehicle components.

Tips for Maintaining Tires

To reduce the risk of damage to your tires, there are various best practices that you can follow. These include:

• Rotating them every 6,000 to 8,000 miles to ensure even tread wear.
• Check the tire pressure regularly and ensure they're properly inflated. It's best to check the tire pressure before you start and operate your vehicle. It's especially important to check the pressure during cold months. In some cases, your tire pressure may drop by up to 2 PSI for every 10-degree (F) drop in temperature.
• Have your tires balanced and aligned when necessary.
• Regularly inspect your tires for any visible signs of damage.

In addition to these tips, it's always best to prepare for a tire issue. If your vehicle can support it, make sure you have a spare in good condition inside of it that can be changed in the event of an emergency. While you're not driving on a spare tire every day, it's still important to check its pressure to ensure proper inflation in case you have to use it. That said, its tire pressure should be checked at the same time as the other tires are checked.

When to Seek Professional for Tire Repairs

You should seek professional tire repair at the first sign that there's a problem. Putting off tire repair is only likely to result in a more extensive repair, not to mention the safety risk that you may pose on the road.

While in some cases, you may be able to spot tire damage, other issues may present themselves in the form of slow, gradual leaks. Rather than inflating your tires every few days, it's better just to have the issue professionally addressed.

Contact Your Local GreatWater-Affiliated Shop Today

For more information on tire repair, contact your local shop in the GreatWater network today. As a group of full-service automotive centers, there's no job too big or too small for our experienced technicians, including tire repair. We'll carefully assess any problematic tires and suggest the best course of action for you. In many cases, we're able to successfully patch a tire puncture and send you on your way. In situations that involve more extensive damage, we'll show and explain the issues we've found and discuss replacement options. Contact us today for more information and to schedule an appointment.