The truth about tire plug repairs
Wondering if that quick "plug" tire repair is still safe to drive on? Here's how the tire industry's professional group, the Rubber Manufacturer's Association (RMA), says to repair a flat tire:
- Remove the tire from the wheel.
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Inspect the tire inside and outside. The tire may be repaired when the puncture:
- Is 1/4 inch or smaller
- Is located on the tread
- Repair the tread with a plug, and repair the lining with a patch.
- Repairs cannot overlap.
- Never repair a large hole or one that's in the sidewall. It isn't safe and could lead to a dangerous blowout.
A plug by itself, or a patch by itself, is not acceptable. But a safer tire repair, done to the RMA standards, can give you thousands of miles more use from your tire.
Bring your punctured tires to any of our stores for repairs done according to the RMA standards, and we'll make sure the tire is as safe as it can be.
