Can Every Puncture Be Repaired?

Not every puncture can or should be repaired. Industry standards (BS AU 159) specify that a tyre can only be repaired if the puncture is within the central three-quarters of the tread area and the hole is no larger than 6mm in diameter. Damage to the sidewall, shoulder, or inner liner disqualifies a tyre from repair.

Additionally, if a tyre has been driven on flat (even for a short distance), the internal structure may be damaged beyond what's visible on the outside. In this case, replacement is almost always the safer option, even if the puncture itself looks repairable.

When Is a Puncture Repair Suitable?

A puncture repair is suitable when the damage is a clean, small hole in the central tread area, the tyre hasn't been driven on flat, the tread depth is still well above the legal minimum, and there's no other damage to the tyre. A proper repair involves removing the tyre from the wheel, buffing and cleaning the area, and applying a rubber plug-patch from inside the tyre.

Tyre foam or emergency inflator products are not a permanent fix — they're for getting you to safety only. A proper mobile puncture repair by one of our technicians will properly assess the damage and carry out a lasting, safe repair where appropriate.

When Is Tyre Replacement Necessary?

Tyre replacement is needed when the puncture is in the sidewall or shoulder area, the hole is too large to repair safely, the tyre has been run flat and has internal damage, tread depth is below 3mm, or the tyre is showing signs of cracking or bulging.

Our mobile tyre fitting technicians will always give you an honest assessment. If a repair is safe and appropriate, we'll carry it out. If replacement is the better option for your safety, we'll tell you clearly and can fit a new tyre on the spot from our van stock.