When you’re driving on the road, it’s common to encounter obstacles that can puncture your tire, such as nails. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t panic! Knowing how to fix a nail in tire can save you time and money. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to fix a nail in tire.
What You Will Need
Before you begin, make sure you have the following items:
- Tire repair kit
- Tire pressure gauge
- Air compressor or tire inflator
- Tire jack and lug wrench
Locating the Nail
The first step in fixing a nail in tire is to locate the puncture. You can do this by inspecting your tire and looking for any visible signs of damage. If you can’t see the nail, you can use a spray bottle filled with soapy water and spray it on the tire. If there is a puncture, you will see bubbles forming at the site of the leak.
Removing the Nail
Once you have located the nail, you need to remove it from the tire. Use pliers or a pair of needle-nose pliers to carefully pull out the nail. Be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands from any sharp edges on the nail.
Assessing the Damage
After removing the nail, you need to assess the damage to your tire. If the puncture is less than a quarter inch in diameter and located on the tread area of the tire, you can repair it yourself. However, if the puncture is on the sidewall or larger than a quarter inch, you will need to replace the tire.
Preparing the Tire
To prepare the tire for repair, you need to roughen the surface around the puncture. Use a rasp tool to roughen the surface in a circular motion. This will help the patch adhere to the tire.
Inserting the Repair Plug
Take the repair plug from the kit and thread it through the insertion tool. Apply some rubber cement to the end of the tool and insert it into the puncture. Push the tool all the way in until only a small portion of the plug is visible.
Removing the Insertion Tool
Slowly pull the insertion tool out of the tire. This will leave the repair plug in the puncture. Make sure the plug is flush with the surface of the tire.
Checking the Tire Pressure
Use a tire pressure gauge to check the pressure in your tire. If the pressure is too low, use an air compressor or tire inflator to inflate your tire to the recommended pressure level.
Checking for Leaks
After inflating your tire, check for any leaks by spraying soapy water on the repaired area. If you see bubbles forming, there may be a leak in the repair. If this happens, you will need to start the repair process again.
Reinstalling the Tire
Once you have confirmed that there are no leaks, you can reinstall the tire onto your vehicle. Use a tire jack and lug wrench to remove the flat tire and replace it with the repaired tire.
FAQs
Q: How long does it take to fix a nail in tire?
A: Fixing a nail in tire can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your experience level and the extent of the damage.
Q: Can I drive with a nail in my tire?
A: You can drive with a nail in your tire, but it is not recommended. Driving with a punctured tire can cause further damage to the tire and put you at risk of a blowout.
Q: How much does it cost to fix a nail in tire?
A: The cost to fix a nail in tire can vary depending on the extent of the damage and where you take your vehicle. On average, it can cost between $20 to $40.
Conclusion
Fixing a nail in tire is a simple process that can save you time and money. With the right tools and knowledge, you can easily repair a punctured tire yourself. Remember to always check your tire pressure and inspect your tires regularly to prevent any potential damage. If you’re unsure about the extent of the damage, it’s always best to consult a professional.