Improper Tire Repair Poses Safety ConcernKnowing the difference between a proper tire repair and an improper repair could be critical to vehicle safety. A tire industry study showed that nearly 88 percent of tire repairs are performed improperly. An improper tire repair could pose a safety hazard to you and your family and could also affect a tire manufacturer's warranty.
RMA offers tire dealers and automotive repair outlets a detailed wall-chart for proper tire repairs. Among the criteria to perform a proper repair are:
Repairs are limited to the tread area only;
- Puncture injury cannot be greater than ¼-inch (6mm) in diameter;
- Repairs must be performed by removing the tire from the rim/wheel assembly to perform a complete inspection to assess all damage that may be present ;
- Repairs cannot overlap;
- A rubber stem, or plug, must be applied to fill the puncture injury and a patch must be applied to seal the inner liner. A common repair unit is a one-piece unit with a stem and patch portion. A plug by itself or a patch by itself is an unacceptable repair.
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