Flat Tire Repair
A flat tire repair is a process performed by professionals at Blue Lake Auto & RV Repair to fix a punctured tire by removing it from the wheel, cleaning and buffing the puncture area, and then applying a plug-and-patch combination from the inside to create a secure and airtight seal.
This method prevents air from escaping and protects the tire's internal structure, but it's only possible for minor punctures within the tire's central tread area, not for damage on the sidewall or cuts larger than a quarter-inch.
Common Questions
How long can I drive on a flat tire?
How long can I drive on a flat tire?
Continuing to drive on a flat tire can cause several problems:
- Allowing more air to escape out of the valve, causing even more tire damage
- Direct damage to the valve stem
- Extreme wearing of and damage to the tire’s tread
- A significantly increased chance of a tire blowout
What happens if the hole is too big?
What happens if the hole is too big?
If the tire damage is past the point of a safe and effective repair, we will recommend that the tire be replaced. When you need a tire store for new high-quality tires, our technicians can help you select the right option for your vehicle and budget.
Can I patch a hole myself?
Can I patch a hole myself?
Almost any sharp object on the road can cause a flat tire. Any puncture or damage to a tire will affect its performance, so proper tire repair is critical. An improperly repaired tire may fail when driven at a high speed, causing a dangerous loss of vehicle control.
Unless you have the experience and appropriate tools/materials, flat or damaged tires need to be repaired by qualified personnel to ensure that the tire’s structural integrity is properly restored. Trying to use a DIY patch kit or a product like Fix-a-Flat will not sufficiently repair the damage to the tire.
One of the reasons for this is that you must inspect the inside of the tire for hidden damage or risk weakening the tire. Punctures in the tread area may damage a greater area of the tire, like the inner sidewall. So, you should not attempt to repair the tire while it is still connected to the wheel, which is how DIY kits are done. Without removing the tire, it’s hard to see all the damage that may be present.
Blue Lake Auto and RV Repair proudly serves the Flat Tire needs of customers in Fairview, OR, Portland, OR, Gresham, OR, and surrounding areas.