Flat tire fix—DIY plug or professional patch? What’s safer?

Sam Fraser · · 3 replies

Got a small nail in my front tire here in Calgary and it’s holding air but worried it’ll go flat soon. Can I just do a plug myself with a kit from Canadian Tire, or should I take it to a shop for a proper internal patch? Also, does it matter if it’s a winter tire?

Replies (3)

Chris Grant ·

If the hole is in the tread and not the sidewall, a plug plus patch combo is safest. DIY plugs can be a temporary fix but not ideal for long-term.

David Young ·

For winter tires, I’d definitely get it patched professionally. The integrity of the tire matters a lot in snowy conditions.

Ethan Lee ·

I once plugged a tire myself and it worked fine for a few months, but eventually got it patched at a shop to be sure.

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