When is a Tyre Repairable and When is It Not?
October 19, 2015

Car tyres can suffer some degree of damage due to a puncture. The severity of damage depends on which specific part of the tyre was punctured. The area where the puncture occurred is a major determinant if the tyre can still be repaired or if a replacement would be necessary.

It is REPAIRABLE if:

• It has been punctured by a small object (a nail, bolt or screw). Tiny objects can generally cause small holes on the tyre which lead to a slow puncture. Although small holes do not necessarily mean severe damage, they must be fixed immediately. Slow punctures can result in blowouts especially at high speeds, which put the driver’s and passengers’ lives at risk.
• The puncture is less than 5mm in diameter. As it is relatively small, the puncture can easily be patched and sealed. Soon enough, the vehicle will be back on the road.
• The puncture occurred in the central portion (central ¾) of the tread. It is basically a rule of thumb that if punctures happen in between the tyre’s shoulders, it can be fixed.

How is repair done?

The primary function of repairing or patching a puncture is to prevent moisture and other foreign objects from getting inside the tyre. Prior to doing any repair, the tyre must be carefully inspected to determine the exact location of the puncture. This requires the removal, deflation and complete inspection of the tyre from the inside. A patch seals the hole and provides internal support to the tyre.

It is NOT REPAIRABLE if:

• The puncture is huge and deep. Tyres won’t be able to function correctly if they have holes larger than 55mm as too much air would escape.
• There is internal damage to the tyre. If the puncture is too deep, it is likely that the tyre could also be damaged on the inside. This can affect the tyre’s function and compromise the car’s safety in general. It would then be necessary to buy tyres for replacement.
• The tyre’s sidewalls are punctured. Unlike the tread area, the sidewalls can’t be repaired. The sidewall is vital to the performance and structure of the tyre. Any damage to this part is a red flag and a replacement would be required.

How do you choose a replacement?

A wide array of tyres is available nowadays, which is good news. Choose one that is suited for your driving or the kind of environment you often drive in. It is also very important to select one of the right size. Most of all, you must choose tyres that are of high quality, such as Continental tyres, to ensure optimum performance and long service life.

If you’re shopping for new tyres, Road Runner Mobile Tyres offers a superior range of products from the most trusted brands. Stuck in your workplace? No problem. We can come to you! We’ll come to your office or home and fit your choice of tyres. Contact us now!