Repair or Replace a Flat Tire—Which is Better?

Regardless of how expensive or exclusive it is, no tire lasts forever! Eventually, you will need tire repair or tire replacement. The trick is to know when you need tire repair or tire replacement.

Fortunately, Repair One in Spring, TX can help. As the premier auto repair center in Spring and Klein areas, we offer a full range of tire services for virtually all makes and models. Let’s explore the conditions and situations when you should have a tire repair or a tire replacement.

Can I Have My Tire Repaired?

Whether you can have a tire repaired depends on the puncture’s type, size, and location. Generally, a tire can be plugged or patched if the puncture is in the tread area and is less than 1/4 inch in diameter. As long as there is no damage to the sidewall, tire repair may be possible.

Although tire repair may seem easy, there’s much more to it than meets the eye. As such, an experienced mechanic should only perform your tire repair. Failure to stick to this golden rule can cause more expensive damage and potentially deadly blowout.

When Is Tire Replacement Necessary?

While tire repair may be the most cost-effective and desirable solution, it’s not always possible. There are certain situations when a new tire replacement is your only option:

Too much tread wear

The tread is part of your tire that makes contact with the road and wears down over time. When the tread depth reaches 2/32 of an inch (1.6 mm) or less, your tire is legally worn, which makes tire replacement your only option.

You can check the tread depth using a tire tread depth gauge, applying the penny test, or looking for the tread wear indicator bars running across the tread pattern.

Tire damage

If the tire has damage, such as cuts, punctures, or sidewall bulges, it should be replaced. These types of damage can weaken the tire’s structure, increase the risk of a blowout, or cause a loss of air pressure.

Age of the tire

Tires older than six years should be replaced. Aged rubber can become brittle, dry, and cracked, which can cause the tire to fail unexpectedly.

Reduced performance

If the tire is not performing as it should—such as decreased handling, longer stopping distances, or increased road noise—it may be time to replace it.

Contact Repair One for Tire Repair, Replacement, & Other Services

Undoubtedly, your tires are one of the most important parts of your vehicle. Besides, your tires are the only part of your vehicle that makes contact with the road. Even so, many people fail to pay their tires the attention they deserve—until there is a problem.

Fortunately, the mechanic at Repair One in Spring, TX can help. We offer a full range of tires services, including new tire sales, tire installation, tire repair, and more.