When you discover a puncture, the immediate question is whether it can be repaired or whether the tyre needs replacing entirely. The answer depends on several factors, and it's important to get it right — an incorrectly repaired tyre is a serious safety risk.
When a Puncture CAN Be Repaired
British Standard BS AU 159 sets out when a tyre puncture is safely repairable. A repair is possible if the puncture is located in the central three-quarters of the tread (known as the "minor repair zone"), the hole diameter does not exceed 6mm, and the tyre has not been run flat. If all these conditions are met, a proper plug-and-patch repair carried out by a trained technician is safe and legal.
When a Puncture CANNOT Be Repaired
Damage to the sidewall or shoulder area cannot be repaired under any circumstances — these areas flex constantly during driving and a repair would quickly fail. Similarly, if the tyre has been driven on while flat, the internal structure is likely compromised even if it looks fine externally. Punctures larger than 6mm, tears, or damage caused by a sharp impact also require full replacement.
Temporary Tyre Sealants
Many modern cars come with a tyre sealant kit instead of a spare wheel. These are designed as a temporary measure only — they allow you to drive to a safe location but should not be used for extended journeys. If you've used a sealant, tell your mobile tyre fitter as the sealant may have contaminated the interior of the tyre.
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