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Plug or Patch? See How To Repair a Tire the Right Way

posted on 3/14/2025 7:24:00 AM

A nail or screw in a tire can set off the tire pressure warning light or even leave you with a flat tire. But it doesn't always mean you'll need a new tire.

If the object is in the tread, most of the time we can fix it and return the tire to normal service with its warranty intact.

A tire repair is our most under rated service because it fixes a big problem for a small cost in time and money.

Here's what we'd like you to know about slow leaks and tire repairs -

-- Plugging a tire will void the tire manufacturer's warranty.
-- Tires should always be inspected from the inside.
-- A tire patch by itself is not a good repair because it doesn't fill the hole left by the nail or screw. Water can get in, rust the belts and separate the plies.
-- Fix-a-flat will ruin your tire (and your tire shop will hate you!).
-- Plugging is a temporary tire repair. Plugs do have a time and place, but always opt for the proper repair if available -- (The BETOOLL Tire Repair Kit is handy for a road trip and having a 12v VacLife Air Compressor Tire Inflator on board is nice too!) -- (As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases).
-- Proper tire repairs are limited to the tread area only -- Only holes ¼-inch (6mm) or smaller can be fixed and only a 2-piece repair unit is acceptable to the U.S.Tire Manufacturers Association, and the Tire Industry Association.
-- At Kenwood Tire, most tire repairs cost about $45-50 and take 1/2 an hour of time. It's best to make an appointment.

See how Spencer, the owner of Kenwood Tire, fixes a slow leaking tire by removing the nail, preparing the hole by drilling with a carbide bit, buffing the inner liner, applying the special cement, bonding and stitching the 1-piece Rema Repair unit to the tire, and sealing the inner liner