Flat tires never happen at a good time. That’s true of a lot of auto repair in Philadelphia, PA, but when you notice your tire deflating quickly, it might not be too late for it. New tires are expensive and if your tires are on the new side, you don’t want to have to get rid of one and buy a new one just yet. Tire repair might be an option.
There are three main approaches to tire repair, depending on the damage your tire has:
Plugs
Plugs are used to repair holes that occur in the tread of the tire. They are the size and shape of the puncture and they can seal leaks from the outside. However, if there’s also a leak inside the lining of the tire, they can’t help. Plugs are a quick and easy fix and they don’t cost a lot, either.
Seals
Seals are utilized inside a tire. The tire will have to be taken off, which takes more time, but they are effective—more so than plugs. They do not repair the tread, which only a plug can do, but they can help the interior portion of the tire in a long-lasting way.
The Combo
You can also get a plug and a seal at once to repair something happening on the outside and inside of the tire. The seal will help to keep the plug in place and the combination is the most durable solution.
Unrepairable Issues
Many times, the tire can be fixed if you catch it fast enough and don’t have further damage on it. But if there is a hole in the side of the tire or along the outer rims of the tread, it can’t be fixed. You might be able to patch things up, but it wouldn’t be effective. Take the advice from a tire professional as to whether or not you can get away with a simple repair.
Once a tire has been damaged, even if you repair it, it might not have the same capabilities that the manufacturer promised. It’s not unsafe, but it shouldn’t be driven at high speeds any longer. You want to make sure a professional does the repair because improper jobs could cause the tire to leak air again or there could be water damage to the tire which could rust the wheel eventually. You don’t want the tire to be unsafe, either.
Whenever you need auto repair in Philadelphia, PA, including tire patch jobs or advice on whether or not you can fix a tire, the professionals at Schafer’s Auto Center are here for you. Give us a call at (215) 755-1270 and we’ll set up a time for you to come in and we’ll take a look at the tire. If we can fix it, we will. But we’ll also be honest with you if a new tire is in your best interest. And at SAR, we’ll do our best to match you with something similar to the rest of your vehicle. Visit us at 1924 S Columbus Blvd Philadelphia, PA 19148.
