Wheels and Tires: Service and Repair
REPAIR1. INTRODUCTION
a. This section introduces the procedures to determine whether the run-flat tire is repairable or not. Repair must be performed by following the appropriate procedures.
If a flat tire occurs, it is possible to drive a maximum of 160 km (100 miles) at a speed below 90 km/h (55 mph) due to the reinforced sidewalls. However, if the customer continues to drive with low tire pressure (less than about 100 kPa (1.0 kgf/cm2, 14.5 psi) and tire pressure warning lamp blinking with chime sound), the inside of the sidewall will gradually deteriorate and the run-flat performance may be reduced. Therefore, the tire(s) may require replacement.
However, there are some cases where it is possible to repair a run-flat tire using the same repair method as for normal tires. Use the following flowchart to determine if a run-flat tire is repairable.
NOTICE: When performing repairs, follow the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) repair procedures.
2. REPAIR PROCEDURE (CUSTOMER INTERVIEW)
a. The tire pressure warning system can help determine the history of the tire's use. The driving conditions the tire was subjected to while the tire pressure warning lamp was illuminated should be obtained from the customer. Also, make sure to ask the following questions.
1. Was the vehicle driven at a speed over 90 km/h (55 mph) with the tire pressure warning lamp on?
2. Was the vehicle driven over 160 km (100 miles) with the tire pressure warning lamp on?
A Yes response to either of the above will greatly reduce the chance of tire reparability.
3. TECHNICIAN TIRE INSPECTION
a. After the customer interview, it is necessary to conduct a thorough inspection of the tire removed from the wheel. As it is difficult to identify a tire with low pressure visually, check the pressure of each tire to determine the tire(s) causing the low-pressure warning. If the tire is found to be repairable, follow the RMA repair procedures.
CAUTION: The deflated tire may be extremely hot, which may cause injury, so allow the tire to cool prior to handling.
4. TIRE PRESSURE INSPECTION
5. EXTERNAL TIRE INSPECTION
6. INTERNAL TIRE INSPECTION