AUTO REPAIR
How We Repair a Flat Tire
A nail or screw in your tire does not always mean you need a new one. When a puncture is in a repairable area of the tread, a proper repair can restore the tire safely. At Tracy's Auto Repair in Heber City, we inspect the tire, locate the hole, plug the outer layer of the puncture and then patch the inner layer, finishing with a topcoat of sealant.
Why a plug and patch?
A plug alone fills the hole from the outside, and a patch alone seals the inner liner. Using both fills the path of the puncture and seals the inside of the tire, which is why industry guidelines favor a combination repair for punctures in the tread area.
When a tire cannot be repaired
- Punctures in the sidewall or shoulder of the tire
- Punctures that are too large, or several punctures close together
- Bulges, cuts or internal damage from driving while flat
- Tires worn below the minimum safe tread depth
In these cases the tire should be replaced for safety. We will let you know what we find.
What to do if you get a flat
Slow down, turn on your hazard lights and pull well off the road before checking the tire. Avoid driving on a flat, which can destroy the tire and damage the wheel. Our roadside safety guide explains what to do, and our tire pressure and tread guide helps you spot slow leaks early.
Question: Can I keep driving on a tire with a nail in it?
If the tire is holding air, you can usually drive carefully a short distance to have it repaired, but do not wait long. A nail can work deeper, damage the tire's belts or cause sudden air loss. Never drive on a tire that is flat or badly under-inflated, because that can destroy the tire and damage the wheel.
Tracy's Auto Repair is located at 110 N Main Street in Heber City and is open Monday to Friday, 8AM to 6PM.