Leaky, flat tires can be annoying—but hope is not lost! Depending on the type of damage, a tire repair kit can help you patch your tire as you figure out your next steps. Follow our guide to learn when to safely use a tire repair kit and when you should replace your tire altogether!
We’ll cover:
Types of Tire Repair Kits
Are Tire Repair Kits Safe?
How to Use a Tire Repair Kit
Best Tire Repair Kit Brands
If it’s time for a tire replacement, browse our selection of high-quality used tires to find the best fit for your vehicle!
Types of Tire Repair Kits
There are four main types of tire repair kits, each with its benefits and drawbacks:
Tire plug kit
Tire patch kit
Plug-patch kit (combination repair)
Tire sealant kit
When picking the right repair kit, think about how much time and effort you’re willing to invest in your flat tire repair.
Tire Plug Kit
Tire plug kits are the most common type of tire repair. They typically come with a rubber plug (also called a stem) to close punctures, a reamer and rasp to clean the hole, and glue or rubber cement to seal the plug. Tire plug kits are best used for minor punctures less than ⅛ of an inch in diameter and should only be used in roadside emergencies.
Tire Patch Kit
Tire patch kits apply flat patches to the tire’s inner liner, using an adhesive rubber cement and abrasive tool. Unlike plug kits, you’ll need to dismount your tire to properly apply the patch. Patches do not fill the puncture, which means air and moisture may enter the tire through the tread, causing damage. Like plug kits, tire patch kits should only be used in emergencies.
Tire Plug-Patch Kit (Combination Repair)
Tire patch-plug kits are the most effective repair method because they can properly seal the puncture and patch the tire from the inside. When installed correctly, they can extend your tire’s lifespan.
Tire Sealant Kit
Tire sealant kits push the sealant through your tire’s valve to coat the entire inner lining. They’re quick to use, making them ideal for emergency repairs. But they can harm your valve stem and affect your tire pressure sensors.
Are Tire Repair Kits Safe?
When used as intended, tire repair kits are safe to use and can help extend the life of your tire or give you time to get to an auto repair shop.
A tire repair kit should only be used if:
The puncture is within the crown area
The puncture is no more than ¼ of an inch (but should be closer to ⅛ of an inch)
The rest of your tire is in good condition
A tire cannot be repaired if it has damage on the shoulder or its sidewall, as these areas flex more and will damage the integrity of the repair. Tire damage to the sidewall or shoulder may lead to blowouts if not addressed.
Image credit: Reddit User EvilStig
How Long Does a Tire Repair Kit Last?
Most tire repair kits are meant for roadside emergencies, so the repaired tire should not be used long-term. You can safely drive on a repaired tire for about 100 miles (about 3 days). Plug-patch repairs are the exception.
A plug-patch kit is the only tire repair method recommended by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Properly applied plug-patch kits result in durable tires that can last for the remainder of the tire’s recommended lifespan.
When Should You Contact an Auto Shop?
If you’re unsure about the condition of your tire or aren’t confident in your tire repair skills, your safest option is to find an auto service shop. Auto shops, mechanics, and tire outlets employ professionals who are trained to examine your tire and recommend realistic solutions. Find an experienced auto shop that you trust to ensure you’re getting the right service.
Additionally, any repair using a plug-only, patch-only, or sealant approach will require you to replace the tire at an auto shop. Once a tire has been repaired, it should not be repaired again. Additional tire punctures will require a replacement.
How to Use a Tire Repair Kit
A tire plug-patch repair takes about 60–90 minutes to complete when done properly. These are general instructions that apply to most plug-patch kits, though you should always default to the product manual.
Step 1: Remove the Tire From the Rim and Inspect It
Remove the tire from the rim so that you can thoroughly inspect it inside and out. Pay attention to the inner lining in case the debris that caused the puncture caused additional damage inside the tire. Remember, if the tire has damage on the shoulder or sidewall, it can’t be safely repaired.
Step 2: Clean the Puncture Area
After determining that your tire can be repaired, prep the tire surface by removing any damaged cords, belts, or debris. Your tire repair kit may tell you to buff the inner liner, giving it a rougher texture to allow for maximum adhesion.
Step 3: Install the Plug and Seal It
Pull the rubber plug through the puncture area from the inside out. Apply a vulcanizing glue to the buffed area. Some brands may instruct you to let the glue cure for about 5–10 minutes. Follow the package instructions for the best results.
Step 4: Apply the Patch on the Inner Liner
Apply the patch to the inner liner of the tire, making sure to completely remove any air bubbles trapped under the repair site. Your kit should include a tire stitcher to help push out air. Next, apply a sealant to the inside patch. On the outside of the tire, trim the rubber plug to about ¼ of an inch above the tread.
Step 5: Mount the Tire Back on the Rim and Inflate It
Remount the tire on the rim and inflate the tire to the proper PSI (as recommended by your tire brand). If you need a second set of eyes, consider scheduling a tire inspection at an auto shop or tire outlet.
Best Tire Repair Kit Brands
The best tire repair kit will depend on your needs. If you want speed and convenience, purchasing emergency plugs or sealant should be sufficient before you replace your tire. They’re cheaper, and you don’t have to remove your tire to repair it.
However, investing in a kit with the right tools will ensure that you’re never caught off guard during a flat tire emergency. Already have the basic tire repair tools? Consider purchasing plugs, patches, and sealant separately instead.
Check out our top choices below!
For Overall Tools: Rhino USA 86-Piece Tire Repair Kit
The Rhino USA 86-Piece Tire Repair Kit includes all of the tools you’ll need to handle a flat, including valve repair components, an air pressure gauge, and ergonomic handles. It’s a plug-patch repair kit, which helps extend your tire’s lifespan permanently.
For Emergencies: Slime Flat Tire Puncture Emergency Kit (Digital)
The Slime Flat Tire Puncture Emergency Kit (Digital) is a sealant repair kit that includes an analog and electric tire inflator, a tire pressure monitor, and water-soluble sealant. You don’t have to remove your tire to repair it, and you can drive for about 100 miles (three days) before replacing the tire.
For Larger Repairs: X-tra Seal Large Plug Patch
Coming in packs of 15, the X-tra Seal Large Plug-Patch allows you to repair large tire punctures permanently, making them an economical choice to have on hand. Like all plug-patch kits, you’ll need to remove the tire to apply it, and it may take some time to do it properly. However, the long-term results and cost savings can’t be beat.
For Compact Tools: Fri Concepts AirPlugger
The Fri Concepts AirPlugger is a compact plug tire repair kit that fits in your glove compartment. Its small size means it won’t take up valuable storage space—which also makes it ideal for motorcycle emergency kits! Because it’s a plug kit, you’ll need to replace the tire after you repair it.
Repair Your Tire With Confidence
Using a tire repair kit is safe as long as you follow the instructions and stick to the intended use. Remember, plug-only, patch-only, and sealant repair kits are temporary fixes intended for roadside emergencies. Use them to get to an auto shop or tire outlet to replace your damaged tire. Plug-patch kits are the only industry-approved method for permanent tire repair.
If your tire is damaged on the shoulder or sidewall, you must replace the tire.
When in doubt, it’s best to talk to a professional to inspect your tire. Our team at Hooper’s Tire Outlet is dedicated to providing quality tire services at reasonable prices. Contact a tire specialist for support!