How Much Does It Cost To Patch A Tire?

Popped a Tire? Patch That Sucker Up! (For Cheap!)

Ugggh, nothing worse than rolling out to your ride, all pumped for your road trip, only to discover one of your tires is flatter than day old soda! Talk about a let down. But before you freak out or let some shady shop charge you an arm and leg, take a breath - this is an easy fix! Let your buddy explain the options so you can patch that puppy up quick without getting ripped off.

Tire Repair - What's the Diff Between Plugs and Patches? 

First tip for success - know the difference between patching and plugging a tire. A patch is a thick piece of rubber that gets glued over the puncture hole on the INSIDE of the tire. A plug (sometimes called a rope plug) gets jammed into the hole from the outside like a cork to block air escaping. 

Best practice is actually to use both together, called a combo repair. This creates a double seal for max durability according to the big tire organizations. Of course this depends on the size and location of the hole. Nothing will save you if it's too close to the side or bigger than a quarter. At that point I say kiss that tire goodbye!

Average Cost of a Tire Patch

Now for the big question - how much is this baby gonna set you back? Well at a standard tire shop, just patching should run you $25-50 including parts, labor and the obligatory taxes and fees. Of course the total bill goes up if it's a huge hole or they sell you extras you don't need! 

You can save some dough and DIY with a $6 patch kit from the auto parts store. But then you gotta invest some elbow grease plus have the right gear - we're talking a jack, tire iron, rubber cement, all that jazz. Honestly if you’re a total newbie, better to have the pros handle it so you don't screw things up worse!

How To Avoid Shady Upcharges and Unnecessary New Tires 

Now it’s time for my sales pitch warning, don't tune out just yet! Some shops are sketch balls looking for quick cash, I get it. But that doesn't mean you gotta get played! Here are my top tips for spotting bogus charges:

• Obviously compare prices ahead of time so you know the average costs in your area. Check reviews while you’re at it.
• Memorize the red flags of when a tire cannot be patched and needs full replacing. We talking slices over 1/4 inch long, holes too close to the sidewall, bad wear and tear, etc. 
• Read the fine print! Some offer warranties and free repairs if their patch job fails. Get it in writing!
• Verify everything under the hood post-repair. Check tire pressure, tread depth, any other issues, so you leave fully road-ready and get max mileage. 

There ya have it amigos! Sorry your tire bit the dust but don’t sweat it and certainly don’t break the bank over a patch job. And hey when all else fails, there’s always roadside assistance! Hit me up with any other car questions. Peace!