How do I know if a Tyre is Repairable?
A tyre is not always repairable after a puncture so making sure that it is safe to drive after having tyres repaired is crucial.
Here are some things to be aware of before getting your tyres repaired
1° Location
When the tyre has a puncture, you have to determine where it is located. Depending on where the tyre is losing air, it may be repairable or not and if so will have to be changed. The central part of the tyre is usually repairable, once out of that area like the sidewall or shoulder then what matters is the size of the damage, it will determine if the tyre is repairable or needs to be changed.
2° Type of damage
If the puncture comes from a screw, a nail, or other small objects, usually the tyre can be repaired. But if the puncture was caused by a large gash, sidewall bulge or tread separation, it is most likely safer to change the tyre and not take the risk to repair it and it being unsafe to drive afterwards.
3° Age and wear of the tyre
If the tyre is close to their recommended lifespan (approximately 10 years), has a worn out tread or shows signs of dry rot, there is no need to repair it as it will not be worth paying for a tyre repair and having to change it shortly after. Eventually, it will get even more damaged and not perform well.
4° Impact on the overall tyre structure
If the puncture or cut damaged another part of the tyre like the steel belts or sidewall plies, the tyre is unlikely to be repaired. In general, it can be repaired if the puncture is on the sidewall and the hole is less than 3 mm in diameter but only if the speed rating on the sidewall does not go beyond the T rating.
When is it not possible to repair a tyre?
If the damage has spread across the tyre and when the puncture is too large. If it is located on the shoulder area it can’t be repaired but if it is on the sidewall and the hole is less than 3 mm in diameter it can be repaired but only if the speed rating on the sidewall does not go beyond the T rating. When it is the carcass that has been damaged, it can’t be repaired. Also, when the tread depth went under 1.6mm, there were previous repairs, the bead is damaged and the tyre is of age to be changed.
How much does a tyre repair kit cost?
Basic kits can start at around $10 to $20, while more comprehensive kits with additional features may cost between $30 and $50 or more.
How much does it cost to repair a tyre?
On average, a simple puncture repair for a passenger car tyre can cost between $20 to $50, while repairs for larger or specialty tyres may be higher. For more extensive damage or sidewall issues, the cost could range from $50 to $150 or more.
How to know if a tyre is punctured?
Check the driving i the wheels feel wobbly, there are vibrations at high speed or if it is difficult to steer the wheel. If on a straight road, the car goes more to the left or the right, the pressure might be low because of a slow puncture.
- When small punctures caused by nails, screws or other similar small objects cut the rubber. The longer you wait the more pressure the tyre loses.
- When you hit a curb, a pothole can damage the tyre. When the damage is minor like that and the inside of the tyre is not affected, you should repair the tyre.
- When a nail or a screw is embedded in the tread of the tyre, you should get the tyre fixed and seal the puncture.
How long does it take to repair a tyre with a nail in it?
About 30 to 45 minutes with the right tools.