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Plugging or Replacing a tire

Should You Plug or Replace a Tire?

Your car takes you to where you need to be. Like any other device, your car requires regular maintenance and checking to make sure it functions properly, especially when you are using it. Even with regular checking and maintenance, you can still encounter car problems and the most common is getting a flat tire. It has happened to most of the drivers, if not all. Whether you are on your way to work or shopping, a flat tire can easily put a damper on your outing. 

What to do when you have a flat tire?

There are many situations that could cause a flat tire. The tire could be cut by a sharp object, overly inflated, or caused by bad road conditions or debris in the road. When you get a flat tire, it can create a stressful ordeal for you. Before you can bring your car to a shop to get your tire repaired, it is important that you deal with the flat tire first by trying some alternatives like tire plugging. 

Tire plugging

Tire plugging is done by using a malleable rubber and inserting it into the puncture so that it expands and traps the air from getting out of the tire. It is a temporary fix for a damaged tire and should not be a permanent solution. Tire plugging allows you to drive your car safely to the nearest shop so that you can have the problem assessed by professionals. However, some drivers tend to forget that the plug is only meant as a temporary solution and that the tire should be replaced completely. Life happens so it might take a while before you are able to get a new tire but it is important to remember that driving with a plugged tire is not safe at all.

In fact, tire plugging is not advisable at all but is recommended during certain circumstances. Before you plug a tire, it is important that you determine if it is safe to install a plug. After that, make sure that you consider certain factors including:

  • The size of the puncture. The size of the hole should not be larger than 0.25 inches or plugging will not work at all.
  • The extent of the damage. The angle of the hole also plays an important role. If the puncture on the tire went straight, plugging will work just fine. However, if it is punctured at an angle, it will be hard to seal it properly using a plug.
  • The tread of the tire. The hole must be located on the tread of the tire. 

Replace your tire

Plugging might be an attractive option because it is less expensive but driving on a plugged tire can be dangerous to you and to other drivers. Should you plug or replace a tire? Plug a tire only under certain circumstances and practice extreme caution when driving on a plugged tire. It is recommended that you replace the tire as soon as possible as it ensures your safety and the safety of others on the road. 

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