Can a repaired tire still be used on highways?
2 Answers
If there is no air leakage after the repair, it can be driven normally on highways, but regular checks should be conducted. Below is relevant information: 1. The general judgment standard is 6 millimeters, which is approximately the width of a little fingernail. When the damage does not exceed this width, some repaired tires can be used on highways. If the damaged area of the tire exceeds 6 millimeters, regardless of the repair method used, it is not recommended to drive on highways. 2. The sidewall of the tire cannot be repaired. A puncture on the tread with a diameter exceeding 6 millimeters cannot be repaired. If there is damage or deformation to the bead, tread deformation, rubber corroded by chemicals, or damage caused by driving under-inflated, the tire cannot be repaired. Other abnormal conditions also cannot be repaired.
Driving on highways with repaired tires does require extra caution. I've seen many car owners hit the highway immediately after getting a tire patch, but the hidden dangers are significant. Especially for tires with sidewall damage, the drastic pressure and temperature changes at high speeds can cause weak spots to rupture at any moment. Even if the patch is in the center of the tread, patches larger than 6mm or tires that have been repaired more than twice are at risk—the centrifugal force on highways continuously stresses these vulnerable areas. I recommend placing repaired tires on the rear wheels; a front tire blowout can lead to dangerous loss of steering control. Additionally, extra caution is needed during hot summer days when asphalt temperatures exceed 60°C, causing tire pressure to spike and increasing the risk of failure. If you must use a repaired tire on the highway, keep your speed below 100 km/h, take breaks every two hours to check tire pressure, and immediately switch to the spare if you notice any bulging. Honestly, buying a new tire only costs a few hundred bucks—way better than gambling with your life.
