Sidewall damage cannot be safely repaired, the tyre needs replacing. Unlike the tread, the sidewall flexes thousands of times a minute and carries the car's load. A repair there can't restore that strength, and a failed sidewall repair can blow out at speed. UK repair standards only permit repairs in the central tread area.
Types of sidewall damage
- Bulges or blisters – the internal cords have broken, usually after a pothole or kerb strike. Immediate replacement.
- Cuts and gouges – anything deep enough to reach the cords.
- Cracking ("crazing") – perished rubber from age or UV.
- Sidewall punctures – outside the safe repair zone.
Why the sidewall can't be repaired
The tread sits on a stiff belt package, which is why a central tread puncture can be patched. The sidewall has no such reinforcement, it's designed to flex. A plug or patch there creates a weak point that heat and flexing will eventually tear open.
What causes sidewall damage?
Kerbing the wheel, hitting potholes at speed, and persistent under-inflation are the big three. If you've recently hit a pothole and noticed a bulge, stop driving on that tyre.
Don't risk it, replace it
A bulging sidewall can let go without warning. Our broken tyre and burst tyre services bring a replacement to you across London and Birmingham, so you don't have to drive on a compromised tyre. Book a replacement.
