The repairable zone
Under the British Standard BS AU159, a puncture can only be repaired in the central three-quarters of the tread — the area that sits flat on the road. The puncture itself must be 6mm across or smaller.
The shoulder (where tread curves into sidewall) and the sidewall itself flex constantly as you drive — a repair there cannot be trusted to hold, so damage in those areas always means replacement.
Repair or replace?
✓ Usually repairable
- Nail or screw puncture in the central tread, 6mm or smaller
- Slow punctures caught early, before the tyre has run soft for long
- Tyres with good tread and no internal damage on inspection
Every repair we do is a full BS AU159 plug-patch: the tyre comes off, is inspected inside, and is rebalanced after repair.
✕ Must be replaced
- Any sidewall or shoulder damage — no exceptions
- Holes larger than 6mm, or multiple punctures close together
- Tyres driven on while flat — the structure is usually broken down inside
- Tread already at or below the legal limit, cracking, bulges or exposed cord
- Most run-flats after being driven deflated (manufacturer rules vary)
If a repair isn't safe, we'll show you exactly why before fitting anything new. Wondering about the rest of the tyre? Read when should you replace your tyres?
Got a puncture? Send us a photo.
WhatsApp a picture of the damage and we'll tell you straight away whether it's a repair or a replacement. 24/7 mobile call-outs.