When you get a tire puncture from running over a nail or a screw, you can use either plug or patch to close a hole on the tire sidewall before getting back on the road.
Patching tires is important if you have a bigger hole; therefore, it should be done by professionals. So, can you go to AutoZone for this service? Here’s all you need to know!
Does AutoZone Patch Tires In [currentyear]?
Unfortunately, AutoZone will not patch tires for customers in [currentyear]. However, the store sells different types of tire patches that car owners can use to seal a hole in the tire. Tire patches are better than plugs; therefore, they can be used to stop a pressure leak and allow you to get back on the road.
For more information about whether you can patch tires at AutoZone and more, keep on reading!
Why Doesn’t AutoZone Patch Tires?
AutoZone will not help you patch tires for several reasons, such as the following:
It’s a Time-Consuming Process
Patching involves using a piece of rubber with an adhesive that gets stuck inside of the tire to seal a hole. Compared to plugging, patching requires more work for it to hold for longer.
Because of this, AutoZone staff will not spend time patching the tires for you, because the staff needs to serve a lot of customers with varying needs.
However, they’ll sell you patching kits that you can use to seal holes on your tires.
It Requires Specialization
For the patching to work, you need to have it done by a professional, and not all AutoZone staff are qualified to handle patching work.
Therefore, in this case, it’s better to go to a mechanic or other stores for this task.
How Does AutoZone Help You Patch Tires?
Although they don’t patch tires, AutoZone employees will sell you quality tire patches. You can buy these and keep them in your car just in case you run over a nail.
You can select from the company catalog and order either via AutoZone.com or purchase them in-store.
Where Else Can You Get Your Tires Patched?
Since you can’t get your tires patched at AutoZone, here are some of the stores that provide this service:
Discount Tire
When you take your tires to Discount Tire, the technicians will remove the wheel and rim, inspect the damaged area, and add a patch.
This service costs between $10-$20, depending on the extent of the damage. In addition, you need to book an appointment online or call your local store.
Walmart
Walmart Auto Centers will patch your tire for about $10-$20, and you have to book an appointment either online or call your nearest store.
In addition, Walmart also sells tire patches; therefore, you can buy one and do the patching at home.
Jiffy Lube
Like Walmart and Discount Tire, Jiffy Lube also charges $10-$20 to patch tires. Jiffy Lube staff will remove the wheel and check the extent of the damage before patching your wheel.
How Much Does It Cost to Patch Tires?
When you need a tire patch, the cost varies depending on the person doing the job, the store, and the extent of damage on the tire.
For instance, if you go to Walmart, you will be charged about $15 to $20. However, you might get a discount if you buy tires from Walmart.
On some occasions, you might not be charged anything if it’s a simple patch job.
When you buy tire patches from AutoZone, they will cost you about $3 to $35, depending on the type you need to buy.
Keep in mind that you need to pay for labor costs; therefore, the overall cost might go up.
Can You Patch Tires Yourself?
Installing a patch on your tire can be quite a complex process. Therefore, to avoid damaging your tires further, it’s better to go to a professional who can handle the task.
You can buy the tire patches from AutoZone and take them to your local mechanic or another store like Walmart.
How Long Does It Take to Patch Tires?
If you take your tires for patching, the time taken to complete the process varies depending on various factors.
It might take longer if you have several punctured points, your tire is in poor condition, and the number of tires that need patching. However, on average, it takes about an hour in most stores.
To know more, you can also read our posts on whether or not AutoZone fills tires for free, if AutoZone fixes flat tires, and does AutoZone do oil changes.
Conclusion
AutoZone will not patch tires for its customers. However, the store sells different types of tire patches that car owners can use to seal a hole in the tire.
Tire patches are better than plugs and can be used to stop a pressure leak, allowing you to get back on the road. However, they need more work because the wheel and rim have to be removed to install the patch inside the tire.
