Car Tune Up Services in Garner, NC

THE TIRE PLUG VS THE RADIAL PATCH: A tire plug is a long piece of malleable rubber that when inserted into a puncture on the outside of the tire, will expand and trap air from getting out. Tire plugs take very little time to install and can be done without removing the tire from the wheel, and in some cases, while the tire is still attached to the vehicle. A tire plug is very inexpensive and the repair can be completed within minutes. A radial patch is a flat piece of rubber that is placed on the inside of a tire to repair the damage. Radial patches require the tire to be removed from the vehicle and the wheel. Once off, the patch is applied on the inside of the tire over the puncture or tear. As the air pressure is put back into the tire, the patch expands and melds to the tire rubber forming one solid piece. This process takes a bit longer than a tire plug repair. Sidewall damage can sometimes be repaired by a radial patch but sidewall damage usually means replacing the tire entirely. The most important thing to remember is that any tire damage should be repaired immediately. Even if your tire is still holding air but has a small leak, you should take it in to be inspected. Small damages can lead to disastrous ones and cause harmful accidents that you want to avoid. Your tires need to be checked and maintained on a regular basis for damage, wear and tear, and lifespan.