HOW TO PATCH A TIRE Where, when, and how to use a tire patch on a flat.
CAUSES OF A FLAT TIRE
A flat tire is hard to miss. But you aren’t always aware of the tire damage that caused it to go flat until it’s too late. A tire punctured by a sharp object like a nail or piece of metal can become damaged enough to lose air and go flat. Bad road conditions, extreme temperature fluctuations, over-inflation, low pressure, and valve stern damage can also lead to a flat tire.
SHOULD I PATCH A FLAT TIRE?
Unless you have run-flat tires, a damaged or flat tire means you can’t drive your car until it’s fixed. While we don’t recommend driving on a DIY-repaired tire, a patch can come in handy in some circumstances where you need a temporary, quick fix. And temporary is the keyword.
HOW TO PATCH A FLAT TIRE
Some may think patching a tire is a simple process, but doing it properly involves specific tools and a series of steps for safety. If the damage is a small puncture, you may be able to put in a plug, but that will only hold up for a few miles to get you into the auto repair shop, where a professional can determine next steps.
If you’re interested in learning how to patch a tire properly, here are the steps that typically go into it:
- Examine the tire: Remove the tire from the rim to check the inner lining. Even if you can clearly see a nail in your tire, it’s important to examine the entire tire to understand the extent of the damage.
- Prepare repair area: If necessary, remove item that caused damage (ex. nail, piece of scrap metal) and use a rubber buffer to scrape away any debris in the area. Trim damaged cords to clear an area for the patch.
- Install rubber plug: From inside out, pull a rubber plug through the puncture area to seal the inside of the tire.
- Apply vulcanizing glue or rubber cement: Used to join rubber components, vulcanizing glue or rubber cement bonds the plug with the rubber of the tire.
- Add patch: Cover the puncture area with a patch. The previously applied glue or cement should help it adhere.
- Rebalance and mount tire: Mount the tire back on the rim and inflate to proper tire pressure. Double-check the tire for any leaks before installing back onto the vehicle.
After patching a tire, you should bring your car to a professional as soon as possible for an inspection. Depending on the extent and location of the damage, a patch might be enough to avoid having to replace the whole tire, but if the damage is to the sidewall or shoulder of the tire, it cannot be repaired. A tire expert can confirm whether it’s necessary to replace the tire or not.