Is a tire plug or a patch better?

A patch (or plug-patch combination) applied from inside the tire is the industry-standard permanent repair — it seals the inner liner and lets the shop inspect for hidden damage. An external string plug is a legitimate get-you-home fix but should be upgraded to an internal patch. Many shops won't warranty an outside-only plug.

Can a sidewall puncture be repaired?

No — never. The sidewall flexes with every revolution, so no patch or plug will hold safely there. The same goes for the shoulder (the curved zone just past the tread edge) and any hole larger than about 1/4 inch. Replace the tire.

How long does a plugged tire last?

A properly installed internal patch can last the remaining life of the tire. An external plug may hold for months or years, but it's not considered permanent — treat it as a bridge to a proper repair, and monitor the pressure weekly until it's patched.

Can I drive on a run-flat tire with a puncture?

Run-flats are designed to drive about 50 miles at up to 50 mph after losing pressure — enough to reach a shop. Whether one can then be repaired depends on the manufacturer's policy (many forbid repairs) and whether it was driven beyond its limits. Check the tire maker's guidance.

Back to tires

Flat Tire Repair: Plug, Patch, or Replace?

About 30 minutesModerate8 steps

Most nail-in-the-tread flats are repairable for $20–$40 at a shop — or about $15 with a plug kit at home. But some damage makes a tire scrap: know the difference before you spend anything. This guide covers the rules, then walks through a temporary plug repair.

A plug inserted from outside is widely considered a temporary repair — the industry-standard fix is a patch (or plug-patch combo) applied from inside the tire, which requires removing the tire from the wheel. Never repair sidewall or shoulder damage, and never repair the same tire more than twice. When in doubt, replace.