Tire Replacement Vs. Tire Repair: Which Is Right For Me?

Anyone who drives on busy roads runs into the chance that their tires might get worn, punctured, or damaged. If you continue to drive after your tire is damaged, you increase the risk that an accident may occur. This is unsafe for the driver, passenger, and anyone else on the road.

When your tire is damaged, you have two options. You can get your tire repaired, or you can replace the tire with a new one. Many people go with tire repair instead of replacement since it is much less expensive. Still, you may be putting yourself and others at risk if you don’t choose the right option. It’s always best to seek out auto advice if you don’t know whether to get a repair or replacement.

Sometimes, no matter how much you spend on repairs, a repair won’t do the trick. There is tire damage that is beyond fixing, even by the best shop. Before you take your vehicle back out onto the busy road, consider what’s safest for you depending on the damage to your tire.


tire blowout
A blown-out tire cannot be repaired. It must be replaced.

Tire Punctures Around The Tread

The “tread area” of your tires is considered the area inside the tire’s circumferential groove. When you drive on busy roads, virtually any part of the tire can become punctured. When a puncture happens within the tread area it’s typically safe to go with the repair option. Any tire puncture outside the tread leans toward replacement.

A good professional repair shop is going to tell you beforehand whether or not a repair is possible. It’s best to ask a professional especially if you’re worried the puncture may leave you open to an accident. Speaking with a professional will help you make an informed decision.

Sidewall Punctures

When you drive, the sidewall of the tire flexes. Too much flexing can loosen the tire patch which is unsafe. Traditionally, most repairs made to tire sidewalls fail. Also, any puncture to a sidewall is a “sensitive point” that can make the tire burst under pressure. The sidewall is made of steel rings that balance the tire. Since the sidewall of a tire is so thin, it’s difficult to properly repair it.

Repair to any sidewall damage is not a good idea. It’s dangerous, and any professional or manufacturer will tell you to go with a replacement. It’s better to go with a full tire replacement since sidewall punctures are a safety concern.

Shoulder Tire Area Damage

The shoulder area of your tire is under extreme pressure compared to other areas. As your car runs, the shoulder area achieves the maximum amount of flexes. This makes it tough to patch shoulder tire area damage for the long term. You can do minor repair work, but excessive flexing can lead to a blowout. This makes you vulnerable to accidents on the road.

When shoulder tire area damage occurs it is recommended to get the tire replaced. Full replacement will make your driving experience safer, minimizing your stress.

Cuts Can’t Be Repaired

While driving, your tires may get small cuts as they roll over debris. Before deciding on a repair or replacement, look at the punctures. If the tire cut is less than one-quarter-inch long, you can get a repair. To stay on the safe side, it is advisable to always get a tire replacement. The exact measurement can be tricky, and it is unsafe.

When asking a professional, get it measured by them. A professional can get an exact cut measurement and provide detail. They can guide you on whether you need a repair or replacement.

Flat Tire Damage

Anyone with low-pressure tires needs to maintain their proper air level. Flat tires allow the sidewalls to touch the road, wearing them down. This can cause irreparable damage to the tire. Typically, minor cuts or puncture leaks can cause deflated tires. As the air leaks out, a low-pressure tire takes on additional damage.

When a lot of air leaks out, the chance of an accident increases. As you drive on a flat tire, you do damage to the vehicle. In some cases, you may be driving on the tire rim. This can cause permanent damage beyond simple repairs.

It is important to get flat or low-pressure tires repaired as soon as possible. If you are worried about the integrity of your flat tire, get it replaced.

Astringent Tire Damage

Sometimes a tire becomes severely damaged from use. If a tire endures several tears, rips, and cuts, you must get it replaced. A good professional won’t repair a tire with lots of damage. In these cases, a replacement will always be suggested. Good repairmen know that astringent tire damage can’t be properly repaired. Astringent damage increases the possibility of damage and endangers the driver and passenger.

Get The Right Service

It is recommended to seek professional services when attempting to fix a tire. Patching a tire must be done correctly to save your tire from additional damage. If you drive on an incorrectly patched tire, problems can occur. This can cause permanent damage to the tire, compromising safety. Since your tires stay in direct contact with the road it’s important to have them properly repaired. If you’re looking for the parts you need that will keep you on the road longer, PartsAvatar has you covered.

When considering tire replacement or repair, note the state and condition of the tire. It’s important to be cautious and to stay aware of your vehicle. Knowing whether to get a replacement or repair can save you from an accident. To play it safe, get regular maintenance from a trusted professional. Reliable services will check your vehicle and advise you on any problems.


Photo Attribution


Image by Free-Photos from Pixabay

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Kathryn Fowler
Kathryn Fowler is the Marketing Manager at PartsAvatar. She's been passionate about cars since childhood. She loves examining different components of cars to understand their operation. Kathryn started writing blogs on automobile parts to share her love for cars and educate automobile enthusiasts worldwide.

4 thoughts on “Tire Replacement Vs. Tire Repair: Which Is Right For Me?

  1. I like when you said to seek professional services when attempting to fix a tire. My car’s tire looks worn out and I want to repair them. Thanks for the information on tire repair and I hope that I can take it to a good shop by this week.

  2. Hi there! Thank you for highlighting that the damage from uninflated tire can be prevented by frequent air pumping. My friend wants to buy some spare parts for her delivery truck. I’ll ask her to remember this tip when she hires someone to repair it later.

  3. Pingback: Robert K.
    1. Of course! I usually start shopping for new tires once the tread level reaches 4/32 deep. Definitely replace them before reaching 2/32. I’m guessing your bad tire had little tread left.

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