Hey scotty! Long time follwer here.
Recently, I found a nail in my tire, which got me thinking. I've fixed a tire with a plug before, and it lasted until the tire needed replacing. After reading online I saw that many people are recommending patches for better success rates. Then, there's also some that suggest going straight to a shop for the fix. What would you do (if you weren't a senior mechanic)? Would you DIY with a plug, use a patch, or head to the shop? Also, why do plug kits advise taking the tire to a shop soon after, when most shops won't repair a tire that's already been plugged?
patches from the shop are more reliable. For me the $20 is worth the bit of peace of mind, especially if they're newer tires. I've even had shops do them for free.
Plugs could last, but they might also develop small leaks, and I like my tires to hold air.
Plugs are great because they're easy to apply, which makes then suited for emergency roadside repair, not permanent fix.
I just had a flat and went to Discount Tire. They patched my tire for free.
When I asked "for free??" they said yes. They said "keep us in mind when you are ready for another set of tires".
yeah... same story here
When I asked "for free??" they said yes. They said "keep us in mind when you are ready for another set of tires".
Same thing for Americas Tire Company. They did it for free, with the idea that you will use them for tires in the future.
IMHO, doing a patch on my own is not worth the time and effort. A tire shop can do it quicker for a fair price. And if you bought your tires from Costco, they will do it for free.
Plugs are okay. Patches are better. Plugs are great in a pinch.