I'm just posting to vent about my 2 flat tires this week. I got a nail on Wed. and took the tire to get plugged at my mechanic. No biggie. As I was washing my car on Sat. I noticed another flat. I went to Pepboys to get it plugged because my mechanic isn't there on weekends. The guy at pepboys said they couldn't plug it and that I need a brand new tire. I was like "screw that" and I walked out. Hopefully I can get the tire plugged tomorrow. Needless to say, my donut really got a workout this past week.

 

Most tire shops won't plug a tire if the nail is too close to the sidewall. I guess it has something to do with liability issues. When I get a nail, I always get them to plug it from the inside of the tire. Your tire will maintain it's speed rating if you do it this way and it's just all around safer.

 

Yeh, if they can't plug it I'm going to have it patched from the inside. It may be a little more expensive, but still cheaper than a new tire. Thanks.

 

Either way from the inside or out, it is not supose to be fixed if it is to close to the sidewall, or if you have driven on it flat. It is unsafe to you and others on the road. I say this because the tire can explode and cause a lot of damage. I see it all the time from inexperienced machanics who fix tires that are not suposed to be fixed. Have them show you what is wrong with the tire and explain why it can't be fixed.... and at the least buy a used tire. Don't be cheap because i would rather be safe then dead... good day

 

Personally, I would buy brand new tires then have them plugged... Or use the plugged ones for a spare.
My brother changes tires on tractor trailers, and he's told me, with the type of car I have, and the way I drive, he wouldn't plug or fix a tire for me unless I replace my donut with it...
Just my $0.17

 

I was taking my Moms max down to Stafford to have new system installed, I was in the fast lane going about 80 and my left front tire blew out. She just had a flat on her right rear the week before...weird.