Is it safe to drive on a tire with a repaired sidewall?

How to Repair Tire Sidewall: A Complete Guide

Driving on a punctured or damaged tire can be not only dangerous but also cause significant damage to your vehicle. Whether you run over a sharp object or hit a pothole, tire sidewall damage can occur, and repairing it can become a costly affair.

However, if the damage is not too severe, it is possible to repair the tire sidewall without costing you a fortune. In this article, we will discuss how to repair tire sidewall in a simple and straightforward way.

Step 1: Assess the Damage

The first step in repairing a tire sidewall is to assess the damage. Inspect the tire for any cuts, bulges, or punctures on the sidewall or tire tread. If you can see any visible damage, it’s best not to repair the tire as it may compromise its structural integrity and put you at risk while driving.

Step 2: Remove the Tire

If the damage is repairable, remove the tire from the vehicle and deflate it. Use a tire iron to remove the lug nuts and lift the vehicle using a jack. Once the tire is off, inspect the inside thoroughly for any secondary damage that may have occurred from the puncture or injury.

Step 3: Clean the Area

Using a wire brush, clean the damaged area on the sidewall to ensure that no dirt or debris gets in the way of the repair process. Use a tire cleaner or rubbing alcohol to wipe the area clean, making sure that it’s dry before proceeding to the next step.

Step 4: Apply Rubber Cement

Apply a generous amount of rubber cement to the damaged area using a brush. Spread the cement evenly and make sure that it doesn’t touch any other part of the tire. Let the cement dry for at least an hour.

Step 5: Apply a Tire Patch

Once the rubber cement is dry, use a patch kit to apply a tire patch. Place the patch over the damaged area and press it firmly. Make sure that it covers the entire damaged area and that there are no air bubbles trapped inside it. Leave the patch to dry for at least 24 hours.

Step 6: Reassemble the Tire

After the patch has dried, inflate the tire to the recommended pressure. Reassemble the tire on the vehicle, ensuring that you tighten the lug nuts appropriately and replace the valve cap.

Conclusion

Repairing tire sidewall damage is not an impossible task. However, it’s essential to assess the damage and ensure that it’s repairable before commencing any repairs. Follow the above steps carefully, and you’ll be able to save money while retaining the structural integrity of your tire.