Should You Patch or Replace a Tire Punctured by a Nail?
1 Answers
Whether to patch or replace a tire punctured by a nail depends on the location and extent of the damage. If the puncture hole exceeds 6mm in diameter or is located on the tire sidewall, the tire should be replaced. If the puncture is on the tire tread and the nail is relatively thin, it can be repaired at a professional repair shop. 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, and even using a hot patch method would only provide a temporary fix rather than a permanent solution. If the puncture is on the tread and the nail is thin, it can be repaired at a professional repair shop. The best method for patching is using a mushroom plug, which involves inserting a mushroom-shaped rubber strip from the inside of the tire to the outside, completely sealing the puncture. The excess part outside is then trimmed off, and the inner part is secured with special adhesive. This method not only provides an external patch but also offers excellent internal repair. However, this method is more expensive and is suitable for larger holes. Patching a tire affects both its performance and strength. If you need to drive on highways, avoid high speeds and never exceed the speed limit. For long-distance highway driving, it is advisable to replace the tire directly to avoid unnecessary safety risks. It is important to note that after patching, a wheel balance check is necessary. Typically, patching requires removing the tire from the rim and reassembling it afterward, which disrupts the tire's balance. Therefore, a wheel balance should be performed.
