Tire Repair 101
Know the Basics
It's important to know the basics of tire repair. After all, a flat tire can happen at any time, and you need to be prepared. Whether you're dealing with a punctured tire or a slow leak, understanding the basics of how to repair your tires can help keep you safe and get you back on the road in no time. Let's take a look at some of the basics of tire repair that we can help you with at Hetrick’s Tire & Auto Service.
Spotting Tire Damage
The first step in repairing any damaged tire is identifying the source of the problem. This means looking for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, punctures, bulges, and bubbles in the sidewall or tread area. If you spot any signs of damage, don't attempt to drive on your tires until they have been repaired—it's not worth putting your safety at risk!
Fixing Punctures
If your tire has sustained a puncture, it needs to be patched or plugged as soon as possible. If it’s a small puncture caused by a nail or screw, then patching may be all that’s needed. A patch effectively seals up the hole so that no air escapes from within the tire. However, if the puncture is larger than one-quarter inch then plugging may be necessary instead. Plugging involves inserting an expandable rubber plug into the hole to create an airtight seal and stop air from escaping out of your tire. It’s also important to note that plugs should never be used on tires with sidewall damage—in these cases, replacing the entire tire is necessary for safety reasons.
Tire Maintenance
In addition to repairs when necessary, good maintenance habits can extend the life of your tires significantly and reduce wear-and-tear over time. This includes regularly checking your vehicle’s alignment and balance settings as well as ensuring that there is adequate tread depth across each tire (you can use a penny test for this). You should also check for proper inflation every few weeks—under-inflated tires will wear out faster than those inflated properly!
Properly maintaining your vehicle's tires is essential for extending their lifespan and keeping yourself safe on the road. At Hetrick’s Tire & Auto Service in Pittsburgh, PA, we can take care of all your tire repairs and services. With proper care and maintenance, driving will remain an enjoyable experience instead of something you dread because you're always concerned about potential problems!