Car Tire Size / Tire accessories / Repair kits
Tire repair kits
A plug kit closes a small puncture in the tread, such as a nail or a screw, so you can get home or to a tire shop without changing the wheel.
What to check before you buy
- Plug kits are for small holes in the tread. Have a tire shop look at any damage near or in the sidewall.
- A kit holds a reamer, an insertion tool and plugs; some add sealant or a small inflator.
- If you use a sealant can, tell the tire shop: it changes how they repair the tire.
- Keep the kit with a gauge and an inflator: after a repair, the tire needs air.
How to use it
- Find the nail or screw and mark the spot; pull it out with pliers.
- Push the reamer in and out of the hole a few times to clean it.
- Thread a plug through the insertion tool, push it in until about a third sticks out, pull the tool straight out.
- Trim the plug, inflate to the door sticker pressure, and check for bubbles with soapy water.
- Drive gently to a tire shop to have the repair checked.