What is the method for repairing a run-flat tire?
3 Answers
The methods for repairing a run-flat tire are: 1. Insert special rubber strips into the punctured area of the tire; 2. Inject automatic tire repair liquid into the tire through the valve stem; 3. Remove the tire from the rim, locate the puncture, clean the surrounding debris, and apply a specialized tire repair patch from the inside of the tire; 4. Remove the tire from the rim, locate the puncture, clean the surrounding debris, and apply a specialized tire repair patch from the inside of the tire, then use a heating machine to bake the puncture until the patch melts and bonds with the puncture; 5. Locate the puncture from inside the tire, push the mushroom plug outward, trim the exposed part, and secure the inner part with specialized adhesive.
Don't panic if your run-flat tire gets punctured! I was completely flustered when it first happened to me. These tires are incredibly tough, and regular repair shops often can't handle them. Quickly find a shop with specialized run-flat tire mounting equipment—those roadside stalls might just scratch your rims. The puncture location is crucial: a small hole on the tread can still be fixed with a mushroom plug, but if the sidewall is cracked, it's truly beyond repair. Once, I drove about 20 kilometers on a completely flat tire, and when the mechanic opened it up, the internal support layer was completely worn out. Always get a wheel balance after patching, or your steering wheel will vibrate like a phone on the highway. Honestly, the less you drive on a punctured run-flat tire, the better. I recommend replacing it if you've driven over 50 kilometers—safety first!
After repairing so many run-flat tires, I've noticed a common mistake: people think they can drive freely even when the tire is punctured. These tires have a reinforced rubber support layer in the sidewall, but driving while flat will still damage it! Last week, a car owner brought their vehicle in for repairs, and upon disassembly, we found the support layer was already frayed—such damage is beyond repair. If you must repair it, go to a professional shop; their tire changers have a 'run-flat tire mode,' whereas regular machines can damage the rims when prying. For nail punctures, the location matters: a mushroom plug works best for the center of the tread, but if it's in the shoulder, you'll need to assess the damage. After patching, always do a wheel balance—otherwise, the steering wheel will start shaking at speeds over 100 km/h. Honestly, tire shops dread hearing customers say, 'I drove 60 kilometers last night before coming in,' as these cases usually require a full replacement.
