Getting a flat tire can be a stressful experience. It may be especially troubling for those who aren’t sure what course of action to take to get back on the road. In some cases, the tire may be salvageable, but other times, it may need to be fully replaced to function safely. A tire specialist or roadside assistance service may be able to help you determine which option is best for your specific situation, but here are some general factors to consider.

When to Repair

Repairing a tire is sometimes an option for damage that occurs due to a small puncture from a nail or other piece of debris.

In order for this option to be safe and effective, the damage must be on the tread part of the tire and measure less than a quarter of an inch wide. This option may still be relevant for tires with multiple punctures, as long as the spots are spread out on different parts of the tire.

When to Replace

You need to replace a flat tire if the damage is more than a quarter of an inch in diameter, there’s a large tear or gash, there are multiple punctures close together, or the puncture is located along the tire’s sidewall or shoulder. These types of damage are not able to be fixed using the tire repair options available, and they may leave the interior of the tire vulnerable to moisture or freezing, which can cause lasting damage to your tire monitoring system.

Sealants, Plugs, & Patches

For tires that are able to be repaired for road use, there are a few different options, but some of them are only meant to help you get your vehicle safely to a repair shop. Sealants provide temporary relief for damaged tires by sealing the small hole with chemicals. Plugs are small devices inserted into a tire hole to prevent further damage for a short period of time. Patches provide a more thorough repair by inserting rubber material inside the tire to cover the damaged section.

If you need help with a flat tire, contact Cogswell Towing. Serving drivers throughout Russellville, Danville, and Morrilton, AR, for nearly 70 years, this towing and roadside assistance provider offers quick and dependable service 24/7. The company has vehicles that are equipped to tow everything from motorcycles to tractor-trailers, and their team uses state-of-the-art straps and equipment to tow vehicles. Visit the company’s website to see a full array of services. To request assistance, call (479) 968-4665.