Should You Patch or Replace a Tire After It's Punctured by a Nail?
2 Answers
Whether to patch or replace a tire after it's punctured by a nail depends on the location of the puncture and the extent of the damage. If the nail has only punctured the tread, the tire can be patched and continue to be used. However, if the nail has punctured the sidewall, it is recommended to replace the tire with a new one. The sidewall is the weakest part of the tire and undergoes constant deformation and recovery during rotation. Forcing a patch on the sidewall may cause the adhesive to peel off. It's important to note that if your tire is punctured, you should not remove the nail immediately. Instead, drive to the nearest repair shop for professional handling. Patching a tire can affect its performance and strength to some extent. When driving at high speeds after patching, avoid going too fast or exceeding the speed limit. If you frequently drive at high speeds for extended periods, it's advisable to replace the tire directly to avoid unnecessary safety hazards.
Just encountered a classic case at the repair shop - how to deal with a punctured tire depends on the specific situation. If the nail is in the tread area of the tire and the puncture is less than 6mm, professional patching will do, with a mushroom plug repair costing just tens of yuan. However, if it's in the sidewall (a weak stress area) or the tire has worn to the safety indicator (tread depth below 1.6mm), even a small hole means you should replace the tire. Once saw an owner try to save money by patching the sidewall, which nearly caused an accident when the patch tore at highway speeds. Important note: Don't immediately drive on highways after patching - let the adhesive fully cure, and get a wheel balance if possible for added safety.