Identifying Auto Service

The tires on your car or truck need air to work correctly, and the tire wear can start to become a problem because the pressure will affect the way the tire contacts the road. There are some options when it comes to tire repair, but it is crucial to take the tire to an auto shop for evaluation if you are not sure what your choices are. 

Slow Leaks

Tires with slow leaks are not uncommon, and in many cases, they are the easiest to repair. The tire may be leaking because the tire has lost the seal to the rim or because there is a foreign object in it, but if it is losing air regularly, it is a good idea to take it into the tire repair shop and have the tech inspect the tire for damage. 

If the tire is leaking around the bead or the tire and wheel's sealing surface, the tech can often take the tire off the rim and clean both surfaces to stop the leak. Usually, cars with steel wheels with rust inside and the flakes of rust can make their way into the bead and break the seal. A good cleaning often takes care of the problem.

If the tech finds a nail, screw, or another object in the tread of the tire that is causing the leak, they may be able to fix the leak with a plug. The plug is inserted in the hole, and a vulcanizing patch is applied inside the tire to seal the hole completely. This is common doe small punctures and will typically last until the tires are worn enough to require replacement. 

If the object is in the sidewall, the tire will need replacing because the sidewall plays an integral part in the structural integrity of the tire. Once it is compromised, there is no way to fix it other than to replace the entire tire with a new one. 

Blowouts and Sudden Flats

Typically a tire that suddenly goes flat has a large hole or tear in the tire, but if you are driving and get a flat, you can still take the tire to the repair shop for an inspection of the tire. Sometimes a nail or screw will puncture the tire and cause it to go flat suddenly, especially if it goes through the tread and then comes out as you are driving. 

If this is the case with your tire, you may be able to have it repaired with a plug, but sometimes a high-speed puncture will create a hole that can not be plugged, and it may mean replacing the tire instead. Contact a tire repair shop for further assistance.