A common question that gets asked is whether a tyre can be repaired instead of being replaced, not only to save money but also to save the environmental cost of throwing away a tyre prematurely, however, the answer really depends on the damage the tyre has.
- If you have a puncture or hole in the red part of the above image (i.e. outside of the central ¾ of the tyre or on the sidewalls) OR the hole is greater than 6mm in diameter, it’s time for a new tyre.
- If you have a puncture or hole (measuring less than 6mm in diameter) in the purple part of the above image (i.e. the central ¾ of the tyre), a repair should be possible but likely only via a specialist that does hot vulcanisation repairs.
- If you have a split, cut and gouge in the tyre most likely it’s time for a new tyre
- If you have a puncture or hole in the purple part of the above image and the tyres are ‘Acoustic’, a repair should be possible, however, it will take slightly more work.
Kwik-Fit have a decent guide on this if you want more reading.
Who repairs tyres?
Any company that replaces tyres should also be able to repair using the British Standard method. For those within the red section of the photo above it would require a specialist that does hot vulcanisation repairs.
What are the steps involved in a tyre repair?
This guide from Dexel covers this well
I’ve used one of those emergency repair/sealant kits is that enough?
An emergency repair/sealant kit is a TEMPORARY repair, the tyre must be removed, inspected for internal damage and permanently fixed.
Can the tyre still be repaired if I’ve used an emergency repair/sealant kit?
Yes, however, it’s important to inform the mechanic repairing the tyre BEFORE they take the tyre off (as it can be messy). Some locations may refuse to repair a tyre that’s been repaired with these emergency kits.
What is the cost to repair a tyre?
This will vary but expect to pay £10-£25. This should cover the removal, repairing, fitting and wheel balancing.
