When to Repair vs. Replace a Tire

Got a nail in your tire? Before you panic (or ignore it and hope for the best), let's figure out if it's a quick fix or time to say goodbye.

The Quick Answer: Location, Location, Location

You can probably repair it if:

• 🎯 The puncture is in the tread (the flat part that touches the road)

• 📏 It's smaller than 1/4 inch (about the size of a pencil eraser)

• 🔢 It's your first or second puncture in that tire

You need a new tire if:

• ❌ The damage is on the sidewall (the tire's side)

• ❌ The puncture is bigger than 1/4 inch

• ❌ Your tread is worn down (hello, penny test!)

• ❌ You've got multiple punctures close together

• ❌ There's visible cracking, bulging, or other damage

Why Sidewall Damage = Game Over

Think of your tire like a balloon. Patch a hole on the flat surface? No problem. Patch it on the stretchy side that flexes with every turn? That's a blowout waiting to happen. Sidewalls can't be safely repaired—end of story.

The Age Factor

Even if your tire looks fine, rubber doesn't last forever. If your tires are over 6 years old (check the DOT code on the sidewall), it might be time to replace them regardless of tread depth. Old rubber gets brittle and can fail without warning.

When In Doubt...

Not sure if your tire can be saved? Bring your car in. At 10 Minute Tires, we'll give you an honest assessment—and if it can be repaired, we'll have you back on the road in asap.

And if you can't make it to us? Wheelhouse Mobile Tire Service will come to you. Because nobody has time for a shop visit when you're dealing with a flat.

📞 Call us at 323-936-9420 or 📍 visit us at 5150 W Pico Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90019!