# Can My Tire Be Repaired? Puncture Repair Rules Explained

A tire puncture can be repaired if it is in the tread area, no larger than 1/4 inch (6 mm), and the tire was not driven flat. The correct repair is a combination plug-and-patch applied from inside the tire after it is removed from the wheel. Punctures in the shoulder or sidewall cannot be repaired.

## Repairable or not

| Damage | Repairable? |
| --- | --- |
| Nail or screw in the tread, up to 1/4 inch | Yes, with a plug-and-patch from inside |
| Puncture in the shoulder or sidewall | No, replace the tire |
| Hole larger than 1/4 inch, or a cut | No, replace the tire |
| Tire driven flat or very low | Often no; the inside must be inspected |
| Overlapping an earlier repair | No, replace the tire |
| Tread worn to 2/32 inch | No, the tire is worn out |

## Check your tire

Mark where the nail is on the [nail damage scanner](https://appointauto.com/?tab=scanner) to see whether it is likely repairable, then book a shop.

## Find a tire shop

- [Tire shops in Los Angeles](https://appointauto.com/tire-shops/los-angeles/) — 1 listing
- [Tire shops in Oakland](https://appointauto.com/tire-shops/oakland/) — 1 listing
- [Tire shops in San Francisco](https://appointauto.com/tire-shops/san-francisco/) — 1 listing
- [Tire shops in San Jose](https://appointauto.com/tire-shops/san-jose/) — 1 listing
- [Tire shops in Santa Clara](https://appointauto.com/tire-shops/santa-clara/) — 1 listing
- [Tire shops in Sunnyvale](https://appointauto.com/tire-shops/sunnyvale/) — 1 listing

## Frequently asked questions

### Can a nail in my tire be repaired?

Usually yes, if the puncture is in the tread area and no larger than 1/4 inch (6 mm). Under U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA) guidelines, the tire must be removed from the wheel and repaired from the inside with a combination plug-and-patch. Punctures in the shoulder or sidewall cannot be repaired; the tire must be replaced.

### Is a plug alone a safe repair?

No. USTMA guidelines say a plug alone or a patch alone is not a proper repair. The hole needs a stem to fill it and a patch to seal the inner liner, which a combination plug-and-patch provides.

### Can I drive on a tire with a nail in it?

Only slowly and for a short distance to a shop, and only if it holds air. Driving on an underinflated tire can damage it from the inside so it can no longer be repaired.

### How much does a flat tire repair cost?

The listed price on AppointAuto for a plug-and-patch puncture repair is $29.99. Each shop sets its own final price.

[Find a shop near you](https://appointauto.com/)

---

Source: https://appointauto.com/guides/tire-puncture-repair-rules/ · Last updated 2026-10-23. Station details are compiled from public listings and can change; call the shop to confirm hours and prices before you go.