Punctured tyres are a common headache for drivers, and knowing whether they can be repaired or require replacement is crucial for both safety and cost-effectiveness. At Car Repair Online, our tyre repair policy aligns with the stringent British Standard BSAU159, ensuring your safety is our top priority. This standard dictates the guidelines for safe minor tyre repairs, specifically concerning their proximity to the tyre’s sidewall.
Understanding the Minor Repair Area
To comply with safety regulations, tyre repairs can only be performed on the central ¾ of the tyre tread, known as the minor repair area. If a puncture occurs outside this designated zone, even if it’s a slow puncture, it’s considered too close to the sidewall. In such cases, a safe and durable minor repair cannot be guaranteed, and tyre replacement becomes necessary.
Why Sidewall Tyre Repairs Are Not Possible
The sidewall of a tyre is engineered to withstand significant stress and load while driving. When a tyre undergoes a minor puncture repair within the permissible area, the damaged section is prepared using an air drill. This process, while completely safe for the minor repair area, could compromise the structural integrity of the sidewall if applied there.
Furthermore, the sidewall experiences the greatest degree of flexing during tyre rotation. Consequently, a repair patch applied to the sidewall is highly susceptible to detachment due to this increased movement. Patch detachment can lead to rapid tyre deflation and potentially dangerous tyre failure.
The Critical Importance of Avoiding Driving on a Flat Tyre
Since the sidewall is excluded from the minor repair area, it’s paramount to avoid driving on a flat tyre (unless your vehicle is equipped with run-flat tyres). Driving on a deflated tyre can severely jeopardize the chances of a successful repair, even if the initial puncture is within the minor repairable zone.
Without proper air pressure, the tyre sidewall becomes trapped and compressed between the wheel rim and the road surface during driving. This pinching action inflicts substantial damage to the sidewall. Therefore, even if your puncture is initially located in the minor repair area, driving on a flat tyre can cause secondary sidewall damage, rendering the tyre irreparable.
Conclusion: Prioritising Tyre Safety
In conclusion, repairing punctured car tyres is possible, but it’s restricted to the central ¾ of the tyre tread, adhering to British Standard BSAU159 for safety. Sidewall punctures cannot be safely repaired due to structural risks. Crucially, avoid driving on flat tyres to prevent further sidewall damage and maximize the possibility of a successful tyre repair within the safe zone. Always consult with a qualified tyre professional to assess your punctured tyre and determine the safest course of action.
