Sharp objects like nails and screws can become embedded in tyres and isn’t it often the way that it happens when you’ve just had new tyres fitted !
Punctures in the tread area can often be repaired. So if the damage is in the central ¾ of the tyre and is under 6mm there is a good chance the damage can be plugged.
It is important to get your tyres checked by a professional as there are other factors to consider before carrying out any repair:
We would thoroughly inspect the tyre for any other repairs – some tyres can be repaired more than once but higher speed rated tyres may need to be scrapped if they have previously been repaired.
We would look for any damage to the sidewall, exposed cords and splits and bulges.
The internal structure needs to be good, we would inspect it for any damage potentially caused by driving on a slow puncture. If the damage has weakened the tyre it will need to be written off.
The tread needs to be over the legal limit which is 1.6mm but we recommend replacing your tyres at 3mm tread, plus you need to consider if it is economically viable to have the repair carried out.
If the tyre passes the safety checks we would repair it to British Standards BS AU 159 standard, balance it and ensure that it is accurately inflated.
Can runflat tyres be repaired?
The answer is, unfortunately, no; run flat tyres can never be repaired. They have reinforced sidewalls and are designed to continue to drive for a short while if they suffer a puncture so we never repair them as their safety cannot be guaranteed.
It’s always a good idea to have your tyres inspected regularly and to keep them properly inflated and maintained to reduce the risk of damage. If you do experience tyre damage, call into any of our branches as soon as possible to ensure no more damage is caused and for your safety on the road.
Don’t forget we are always happy to carry out free tyre safety checks at our branches in Sudbury, Haverhill, Diss, Saffron Walden, Bury st Edmunds and Stowmarket.
