Can a tyre with a nail in it be repaired?

A nail or screw often plugs its own hole. Pull it out and the tyre can go flat in minutes. Check the pressure. If the tyre is holding air, drive gently to somewhere safe and call. If it is going down, stay where you are and call.

A repair is normally possible when all of these are true:

• The hole is in the central three-quarters of the tread
• The hole is no more than about 6 mm across
• The tyre has not been driven on while flat
• The tyre has enough tread left and no other damage

These limits come from the British Standard for tyre repairs, BS AU 159.

• The nail is in the side of the tyre or on its outer edge
• The hole is too large, or there is a cut instead of a clean hole
• The tyre has been run flat and is damaged inside

The tyre comes off the wheel so the inside can be inspected, then a combined plug and patch is fitted from the inside. A plug pushed in from outside without removing the tyre is a temporary fix only.

We fit and repair tyres at the car, at home, at work or at the roadside, usually within 30 to 45 minutes of the call. You hear the price first. Call 07861 958044, any hour.