Is it worth paying to get your tire patched?

It’s a big pain to sit on the side of the road with a flat tire. After you have your spare tire on, it's time to go to the nearest tire shop to see if they can fix the problem. What is the cost of a patch for a tire? Is it cheaper than buying a plug to fix it?

This guide will help you estimate the cost of a new tire. So you make an informed decision about which tire repair option is best for you, we also consider all possible options. 

What is the cost to have a tire pounded?

It shouldn’t cost you much more than $40 to get a tire patched. It all depends on the size of your puncture and where you live. Certain parts of the nation have lower labor rates than others. While you may save money if you patch your own tires, it is not a good idea. You will need to have the right tools. 

To keep the tire repair cost to a minimum, don’t drive on a flat tire. It is possible to replace the tire if a patch is not feasible if you are driving on it.

The average mechanic will need to fix your tire in about 15 to 20 mins. If you decide to plug the tire, it should take no more than 5 minutes. This makes it easier to get the tire fixed before it's too late.

How safe is patching tires?

Under the right conditions, it’s completely safe to drive on a patched tire. This repair is preferred in almost all cases.

You might consider replacing the tire if your driving habits are aggressive or you exceed the speed limit. It might not be worthwhile to put your safety in danger just for the sake of saving money. 

Tire Patch vs. Plug

What is the best way to choose between the patch or the plug for your tire? Many states have decided to repair the problem by plugging it and then patching it. According to many state laws, this type of repair provides a dual layer of protection. This is provided by the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association.USTMATire Industry Association (TIA). 

If the tire has a small puncture that’s completely round, you might be able to plug it, if it’s legal in your state or country. This repair is often slightly cheaper than the patch because you don’t have to remove the tire to do it. However, neither of the repairs can be done near another repair or if the damage is located near the tire’s sidewall. 

READ MORE: Tire patches or tire plugs?

What is the life expectancy of a tire patch?

A professional patch will keep your tire in good condition for the rest of its life. You can be sure that the tire will last as long as it has been in service.

If the tire is already getting old and needs to be replaced soon, it might make more sense to replace the tire now than to patch it. After all, it won’t make sense to spend money on a patch if you are going to buy new tires in a few months anyway.

How to deal with a flat tire

1. Get on it!

You must immediately take immediate action if you notice that your tire has gone flat. You can pull over to a safe spot and then continue on the road.

You shouldn’t drive on a flat tire, or more damage could occur. After you have found a place that is safe, you can turn on your hazard light to let other drivers see you. 

2. Make sure you have a spare

Now is the best time to get a spare. Keep your vehicle moving slowly, and be careful with the spare tire. 

If the vehicle doesn’t contain a spare or a tire puncture kit, you will need to call for roadside assistance. You will most likely need the vehicle town unless the tire can be repaired or brought back. 

A tire puncture kit is a tool that car makers use to repair small punctures. Although this may seem like a good idea for small punctures, it is not recommended. I have seen firsthand how difficult and messy these sealants can be to repair tires.

3. Stop by your local tire shop

You will not be able to remove a tire unless you are equipped with the necessary equipment. To ensure optimal on-road safety, it’s best to have a professional put the tire patch on.

You might consider placing a plug into the puncture if it is not too severe. You can do this at home if you have the necessary skills and materials. 

How do you patch a tire?

1. The Leakage

It might be easy to find the leak, particularly if there is a screw or nail sticking out of the tread. However, if you can’t find the leak, you need to perform a soapy water test.

In a spray bottle, mix dish soap and water. Start by inflating your tire. Then spray the solution all over it until bubbles form. This is the location of the leak. 

2. Remove the tire

You will need to remove the tire from your vehicle and take it off the rim, if necessary. Use a specially designed tool to remove the core of your valve stem. The tire pressure should be completely released.

Use a tire spoon or hammer to break the tire bead. Before the tire can be removed from the rim, it must be broken on both ends. If you use a tire plug, you don’t need to remove the tire at all, however, check the legal law in your state before.

3. Use the Patch

Clean the hole using an air-die grinder or sandpaper. For a bond to be secure, all edges should be cleaned and roughed. To remove all debris, spray the area with compressed Air. 

After the tire was polished, add vulcanizing concrete to it. This cement stops water from entering the hole. Let it sit for a while until the cement turns tacky. Remove the sticky plastic from the patch. You want this side to touch the inside of your tire. 

Place the tire patch's sticky side over the hole. This step ensures that sticky material secures to the tire’s inner surface. 

You can secure your patch further by using a roller. The roller removes any air bubbles which might be trapped. Before moving on, let the patch dry completely. 

4. Replace the tire

You can use dish soap to clean the tire bead. With the assistance of tire spoons, slide the tire onto the rim. Install a new valve stem core. Fill up the tire with the amount of pressure listed on the driver’s side door jamb. 

You can spray the patched area with dish soap and water again to ensure there’s no leak. Install the lug nuts and slide the wheel back on the car. It is now time to get on the road.