You have a dilemma.
When you were driving home, your TPMS light turned on due to a puncture on one of your tires. You're thinking of repairing the tire but are worried that it might not be eligible for this service. In that case, you would need to replace it, but you remember hearing somewhere that it isn't a good idea to replace one tire only. Your other tires are fine, and the thought of replacing them so soon is frustrating to say the least.
What can you do?
The first step in this scenario is to find out if you can repair the tire.
Not all tire punctures are safe to repair. Typically, tire shops follow guidelines (see this US Tire Manufacturers Association handout for a good representation of them) to determine when damaged tires are eligible for repair.
Here are the factors that are considered:
Location of the Puncture: If the puncture is in the tread area and less than 1/4 inch (6 mm) in diameter, it can typically be repaired. However, if the puncture is on the sidewall or shoulder of the tire, it cannot be safely repaired and the tire should be replaced.
Size of the Puncture: The puncture size should be less than 1/4 inch (6 mm) in diameter. Larger holes or cuts may compromise the structural integrity of the tire, requiring replacement.
Number of Previous Repairs: If the tire has been repaired multiple times, especially in the same area, it may not be safe to repair it again. The structural integrity could be compromised, so replacement is the safer option.
Type of Tire: Some high-performance or run-flat tires may have specific repair guidelines or may not be repairable at all.
It is recommended to have the tire inspected by a professional at a reputable tire shop who can assess the damage and advise you on the best course of action. Always prioritize safety over cost when it comes to tire repair vs replacement.
Let's say your tire has a puncture that is outside of the repairable tread area. In this scenario, it's unadvisable to replace just one tire. Typically, tires should be replaced in pairs or entire sets, depending on the remaining tread of the other tires and the type of vehicle you drive.
What should you do with your other tires if you need to replace them as well?
You have several options, including:
Sell, Trade-In, or Donate Them: You can sell the tires to someone or check with the local tire shop to see if you can trade them in and put that value toward the purchase of new tires. Alternatively, you can donate the tires to a local automotive school, charity, or organization that accepts them.
Use Them as Spares: If the tires are still in good condition, you can keep them as spares. Having full-size spares can be useful if you experience a flat tire in the future. You may want to hold onto two of the tires for this purpose, since replacing tires in pairs (on the same axle) is possible on some vehicles. If it isn't recommended to replace tires in pairs on your vehicle, such as with some all-wheel drive vehicles, you may not benefit as much from holding onto the tires unless the tread is like-new. That way, you can get away with purchasing one or two new tires in the future that will match what you have, should this happen again. One other item to keep in mind is that tires can age out of use, even if they have like-new tread. The timespan varies but is generally between 6-10 years of use. Check what your tire manufacturer has to say about the tire model and factor this into your decision, too.
Recycle: Tires should not be thrown away with regular trash due to their environmental impact. Many tire retailers, automotive shops, and local recycling centers offer tire recycling services. Recycled tires can be repurposed for various uses, such as rubber mulch for landscaping, playground surfaces, or as a component in road construction materials. You might even use one or more of those tires for a gardening project, to create some unique furniture, or to build a tire swing.
Before you decide what to do with your remaining tires, make sure they are in good condition and have no hidden issues that could compromise your safety. If in doubt, consult with a tire professional. Always ensure that your actions comply with local regulations regarding tire disposal and recycling.
At Aspen Tire & Auto, we provide tire repair services in Wilmington, NC. This includes tire repair for Tesla vehicles. If your have a flat tire and need assistance, stop by our tire shop or give us a call. We will inspect your tire and repair it if it's eligible for service. Should you need replacement tires, we have a great selection of tires for sale and will assist you in locating tires that fit your driving environment, budget, and vehicle.
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