How To Repair a Flat Tire?

Having a flat tire is something that any driver, sooner or later, will have to go through. But contrary to what you might think, a flat tire does not necessarily mean you have to replace it. It is possible to repair it.

But how do you know if it’s worth it? And is it possible to prevent these situations? Discover everything in this article. We’ll also point you to a convenient mobile tire repair service in Broward County that can help you if you’re around there.

What Can Cause a Tire Puncture?

Tires are robust parts designed to withstand various situations. But sometimes bad luck happens. Typically, tire punctures are caused by a puncture with a sharp object. We are talking about, for example, pieces of broken glass, nails or screws. But other situations can cause a tire puncture, such as hitting the curb hard in an attempt to park.

How Do You Know If It’s Possible To Repair a Flat Tire?

The golden rule is that it depends on where the tire is punctured. In the floor area, it is usually possible to carry out a simple repair (if the hole is not too large). In the shoulder area and flank, this is not possible. Punctures in these locations, in the vast majority of cases, compromise the general structure of the tire.

However, if the speed code on the tire sidewall does not exceed the T rating and the puncture is less than 3 millimeters, it is possible to repair it. The speed code indicates the maximum speed at which the tire can carry its maximum load, and you can find it on the sticker on the driver’s door or owner’s manual.

What Should You Do if You Have a Flat Tire?

If you are driving and suspect you have a flat tire, the ideal thing to do is to stop safely as soon as possible. Driving with a flat tire is highly discouraged as it can crush the sidewall and cause irreversible damage to the general structure. We talk specifically about:

• Pressed tire: the tire is marked on the inside after being crushed due to lack of air (low pressure);
• Shaking: causes the inner rubber pieces to heat up and break;
• Tire displacement: can lead to tire burst.

If you continue to drive with a deflated or flat tire, it can cause the tire to become too weak and beyond repair. Therefore, pull over the vehicle as soon as possible and get the help of a mobile tire repair service to replace the flat tire with a spare tire.

How to repair a tire puncture?

The most recommended way to repair a puncture in a tire is through the “mushroom” method or PRP. Professionals normally carry out this repair, which involves dismantling the tire and examining the inside to determine the level of damage. In some cases, the hole may not have a seam. If it is possible to repair the flat tire, the procedure is as follows:

• Locate the exact location of the hole and, if necessary, remove the foreign body (nail, screw, etc.);
• Clean the inner area of ​​the tire with suitable products;
• Insert the PRP (the “mushroom”) into the hole from the inside out, and seal the hole;
• Cut off the protruding part.

Although this is the recommended way to repair a flat tire (as experts analyze data), there are other methods. Some people use repair kits, which consist of a spray (which is used to inject foam into the tire and fill the hole) and a patch (a patch that is applied to the outside to cover the hole).

In emergencies, this kit can work and allow you to drive safely to the nearest repair shop. However, the ideal is to always change the tire and take it to a workshop to be examined by professionals. Or better still, you can call a mobile tire repair service to help you repair it at that spot.

Is It Safe To Repair a Tire?

Suppose the procedure is done correctly, yes. For this reason, we reinforce the importance of visiting a specialized workshop in order to determine the real damage. If the tire is damaged by running under low pressure, its useful life will be short, and your safety on the road may be compromised.

How To Prevent a Flat Tire?

Having a flat tire is normally bad luck that happens to even the most experienced drivers. However, there are some measures you can take to reduce the likelihood of this event happening. We suggest that:

• Pay attention to the good condition of the tires. Avoid driving with bald tires. Ideally, the tire should always be at least 1.6 millimeters deep.
• Change tires if they have cracks. If your tires have small visible cracks, change them as soon as possible and prevent the problem from spreading.
• Ensure correct air pressure. This way, your tires will not suffer unnecessary wear; they will become more resistant and will allow you to enjoy greater safety while driving.
• Check steering alignment. If the steering is not aligned, it can cause greater wear on a tire and increase the likelihood of getting a puncture.
• Pay attention to the weather conditions. Bad weather can compromise good visibility on the road and can make it more difficult to see and avoid objects that could puncture a tire. And if you drive in temperatures below 7 degrees, don’t forget to switch to snow tires.

Where To Repair a Tire Puncture?

KT Road Side has specialized teams ready to assess the condition of your tires. If you have a flat tire, you don’t need to go to the nearest garage and ask for a professional opinion on repairing or replacing it. You can contact us at KT Road Side as we are a mobile tire repair service in Broward County ready to come to the point you are with just a call.