Trust tire plugs/patches?

[bejjutsu]

Ran over a number of nails/screws in the past couple of years, and certainly can't afford to change tires every time that happens.

Two of my wheels currently have plugs (one from a year ago, the other from 3 months ago).

Do you guys trust them, or would you buy a new set of tires:

A. for everyday use?
B. for a 2000 mile trip?

[Larz]

I had a plug in one of my tires on my previous car. It lasted the life of the tire. I live at the near bottom of Florida and it takes about 7 hours driving time just to get out of the state. I travel for rugby up and down the eastern coast as far as NY and also across the state to Tampa. It never failed and it never caused me trouble. Thye only thing I remember my mechanic telling me is that a puncture at the edge of the tread, or on the sidewall is not likely to last. My hole was near the center of tread so I was lucky.

[once-handy]

I know that any tire repair voids the speed rating of the tire. If you don't drive very fast or very aggressively, I think you're OK.

[bejjutsu]

Both plugs are dead center on the tires and not near the sidewall. This car will be driven probably around 65-83MPH, given the average highway speed where it's going. I definitely want to be safe, but at the same time the tires are hardly worn..

[tomnan24]

I've had 2 -3 plugs and never had any trouble. I drive up to 80 mph for sustained periods.

Since you also mentioned patches: I worked in a BF Goodrich tire store 40 odd years ago and it seemed to be acknowledged by most that patches on the inside of the tire were much better and safer than plugs due to the fact the plug size/shape never matches the hole. Trouble is the patch is time consuming and more expensive than plugs due to the extra time to do the work and also the rebalancing necessary after the tire is taken off the wheel.

[bejjutsu]

I have heard that about the patches. The way I look at it, tires will be about $900. If I could spend $100 and get another year (or two) out of the set I have now, I would do it in a second.

The toughest thing about this is every mechanic has a different opinion, but I can't find solid evidence that a plug leads to a blowout.

How long have you had your tire plugs?

[Boonies]

A reputable shop that is concerned about customer safety will not plug a tire, they will break the tire down and patch it from the inside. All manufacturers and the industry trade group indicate that tire plugs will void tire warranty.

It will be more expensive, break down and re-installation, labor to patch the tire and of course re-balancing but in the end it will be a better repair if you have enough meat left on the tires to make it worthwhile.