Everyone hates to spend money on things that we do not really want or need. Spending money on new tires or automotive work ranks near the bottom of everyone’s bucket list.
Repair or Replace?
We see a lot of tires come through our shop in need of repair or replacement. When we tell someone their tire cannot be repaired and needs to be replaced, it is natural for our customers to have a look of shock on their faces.
The truth is that some tires are beyond repair, and trying to repair them would be unethical and violate auto safety guidelines.
Here are some of the most important questions we ask when deciding whether a tire needs repair or replacement:
Where is the puncture?
The puncture in the tire must be in the center of the tire’s tread area. If the puncture is in the shoulder or the sidewall the tire cannot be repaired.
Compromising the performance of the tire means increasing the potential for tire failure and serious injury. We care about your safety, so repairing your tire in an unsuitable or unsafe place is not an option.
How is the puncture’s shape?
Straight or jagged gashes in the tire cannot be repaired and must be replaced. Cuts in the tire indicate that the tire’s belts have been damaged, which reduces the overall strength and durability of the tire. A patch cannot fix the tire’s belts.
What is the puncture’s size?
The automotive industry does not allow anyone to repair punctures over 1/4″ in diameter (6mm). Large holes are more difficult to seal than smaller ones. The larger the puncture, the more compromised the tire and the greater likelihood of future leaks.
What is the tire’s current condition?
Repairing an old, worn-out tire is only delaying the inevitable. Tires worn down to the tread-wear indicators or with only 2/32-inch remaining should never be repaired because the risk of tire failure is already very high.
Are there any other injuries to the tire?
Multiple tire punctures and previous repairs weakens the tire. Punctures too close together or directly across from each other cannot be repaired. Attempting to make these repairs would cause weak spots in the tire that would place the drivers and passengers at risk.
What does the manufacturer say?
Some tire manufacturers have specific guidelines in how to address tire repairs. Tire manufacturers usually limit the number of times that a tire can be repaired and determine if a tire can be repaired at all. Knowing the manufacturer details allows us to make sure that your tire can be safely repaired or if the tire should be replaced. Compromising your tire’s performance means compromising your vehicle’s safety.
Your safety is our top priority, and patching a tire that should not be repaired means putting your life at risk. We pride ourselves on placing people’s safety first, and we encourage everyone to ask questions about our processes and why we recommend the services that we do.
Postle Tire Barn is a locally owned tire and auto shop in Tuscaloosa, AL. We’ve been serving the West Alabama area for more than 36 years. If you have question about our service, feel free to email us at [email protected], or give us a call at 205-391-0062.
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