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Tires Mississauga

When can a Tire be Repaired?

One of the most dreaded circumstances every driver worries about is getting a flat tire. It is a huge hassle to deal with, and it can be tricky knowing when to repair or replace a damaged tire. After all, not all flat tires can be fixed, and some will have to end up in the scrap pile. Here is a guide to tell you when a tire can be repaired and when it makes sense to replace it.

Punctures

If a nail or other sharp object has punctured your tire, it most likely can be fixed as long as the hole is not on the treat and is no larger than 1/4 of an inch wide. You will need to scrap the tire if the puncture is on the shoulder or sidewall of your tire. Even if there is more than one puncture, you can still get your tire repaired as long the holes are 16 inches apart. If they are closer than that, you will need to buy a new tire. If you got into a major accident and your tire sustained significant damage like tread separation or large gashes, you should replace it instead of trying to repair it.

Quick Fixes

There are several quick fixes available, and it may make sense to use them if your tire damage is minor; however, these fixes should not be used for long-term repairs:

  • Emergency inflators or sealants – These fast fixes can help get your car to the nearest auto shop, but do not count on them for a longer distance than that. Tire sealants freeze in below zero temperatures and damage your tire pressure monitoring system. These fixes are ineffective at repairing tire damage that is more extensive than a small hole or slow leak.
  • Plugs or patches – These are also not meant to be permanent fixes for damaged tires. Plugs are not a long-term seal and patches do not fully cover a hole left by nails or other sharp objects. Patching alone is never a sufficient fix.

Tire Maintenance

Your tires are the only part of your vehicle to come in contact with the road, making them one of the most critical parts of your car. You should always have your tire replaced or repaired by a trained technician to ensure it is done correctly. Even if your tires only look a bit worn, you should take them to a professional to make sure they are safe to use.

Bring your vehicle to the experts at 416 Wheels and Tires in Mississauga. Unlike other auto repair shops, we specialize in tire maintenance and will ensure you drive off in a safe set of wheels. We offer premium tires and rims at a reasonable price and guarantee all of our work.