Understanding Tire Repair Limitations
Tire Repairable Area
The Tire Industry Association (TIA) sets guidelines for tire repairs, including the maximum size of a puncture that can be safely repaired. For passenger and light truck tires, the maximum repairable injury size is 1/4 inch (6mm) in diameter. If the puncture exceeds this limit, a new tire replacement is needed.
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Types of Tire Damage
Unrepairable Tire Damage
Certain types of tire damage cannot be safely repaired. These include:
Punctures larger than 1/4 inch (6mm) in passenger tires or 3/8 inch (10mm) in steel belted truck tires.
Sidewall damage, including zipper ruptures.
Damage from running flat or underinflated tires.
Inner liner separation.
Casing separation.
Excessive tread wear.
Exposed plies or cables.
Deformed bead, exposed fabric or steel.
Ozone cracking.
Damage from impact.
Proper Tire Repair
Steps for a Permanent Repair
To perform a proper, permanent puncture repair, the following steps must be followed:
Remove the tire from the rim for full inspection.
Drill out the damage using a carbide cutter.
Buff the inner liner to a #1 or #2 buffing texture.
Fill the injury with a vulcanized rubber stem.
Reinforce and seal the repair from the inside using a repair unit.
tire repair, tire puncture, tire damage