Tire repairs are more than an art; they are a science requiring trained and experienced workers using the newest state of the art tools and materials.

Sadly, poor tire repairs are the Achilles Heel of the tire industry and they are responsible for far too many ruined tires, causing unnecessary (and expensive) downtime and the loss of a tire that might have cost as much as $450 dollars and could have easily been saved and put back into full service had it been repaired properly. A ruined tire is also a ruined candidate for retreading, which makes the loss even greater.

Fleets, here are a few important rules about tire repairs:

1. Never accept a tire repair that has been made without having the tire removed from the wheel. Proper tire repairs must be made from the inside of the tire and never simply plugged from the outside. Don’t let anyone ever tell you otherwise.

2. Know your tire repairer. Does he use the latest technology and the best tools? Has he received training from a major tire association and/or his tire repair equipment supplier?

3. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. It is your money and your equipment at stake. Remember, a proper tire repair can safely save your tire, which translates into saved money and fewer headaches for you and your fleet.