How to Use Cold Patch Film?
4 Answers
Apply glue to the sanded area, and when the glue is almost dry, attach the patch film. When attaching the patch film, be careful to do it correctly the first time, as it won't stick well if you try to reposition it.
Over the past few years, I've helped many people patch tires, and the cold patch operation is quite simple, but the key is to be well-prepared. First, use sandpaper or a steel brush to clean the leaking area of the tire, removing dust and grease to ensure the surface is rough enough for the glue to adhere firmly. Then apply the cold patch glue, spread it evenly, and wait for about ten seconds until the glue layer becomes semi-dry and tacky. Next, accurately place the patch over the hole, making sure it doesn't shift. After that, use a small roller or a hard object to flatten it and remove any air bubbles, otherwise it might come off easily. Finally, inflate the tire a bit to check for leaks; if there are none, you're good to go. Note that this method is only suitable for small holes less than 6mm—larger holes won't hold, and the environment should be dry, so avoid doing this in the rain. After patching, treat it as a temporary emergency fix and drive only a few dozen kilometers before heading to a professional shop, otherwise it might leak again. I always recommend keeping a cold patch kit in the car for emergencies during long trips—it's much faster than calling a tow truck.
I tried it for the first time last month and felt quite accomplished. The steps aren't complicated: locate the punctured spot, thoroughly clean it with the included cleaning strip—it must be free of water and oil. Then apply some glue, wait until it gets slightly tacky, press the patch firmly for a few minutes to ensure adhesion. My first attempt failed because I didn't press hard enough—the tire went flat as soon as I drove off. I learned my lesson and now make sure not to cut corners at any step. I've gotten into the habit of keeping a few cold patches in the car for quick fixes on small holes in emergencies. But remember, this is only a temporary solution—the tire balance might be off after patching, making high-speed driving unsafe, so I always head straight to the repair shop for a checkup afterward. Also, don't use this method on large sidewall gashes, and note that the glue has a limited shelf life—store it in a cool, dry place for long-term storage.
I often remind my family that safety is the top priority when patching a tire. Here's how to use a cold patch: choose a small puncture site, thoroughly clean the surface with a towel, and let it dry if wet. Then evenly apply glue—just a thin layer, not too thick—stick on the patch, and press it firmly. It's best to let it sit for half an hour before driving. This isn't a permanent fix, just an emergency solution, so after patching, drive slowly to the nearest shop for a thorough check of the tire structure and pressure. From personal experience, weak glue or sloppy work can lead to the risk of a blowout at high speeds, especially when kids are in the car. I recommend checking the expiration date of your spare patches every quarter and discarding any that are expired.
