Is it Possible to Repair Tire Sidewall Damage?

Is it possible to repair damage to the sidewall of your tire?

In many cases, yes.

For years, tire sidewall damage meant you had two options:

• Replace the tire.
• Use a handful of plugs to get off the trail, and then replace the tire anyway.

Neither option was ideal, often leaving you with an expensive tire replacement or a long trip back to the trailhead.

In 2018, after damaging the sidewall of an ATV tire, we thought, "There has to be a better way..."

After extensive testing with different rubber compounds and adhesives, we developed GlueTread as a solution for repairing sidewall damage on tubeless tires.

GlueTread combines a specialized adhesive and rubber patch to create a durable external repair. Best of all, there's no need to remove the tire from the vehicle before making the repair.

GlueTread Tire Sidewall Repair Process

Repairing tire sidewall damage with GlueTread is simple. First, sand the damaged area to create a smooth surface for the patch. Next, apply a small amount of adhesive into the damaged area and allow it to cure before removing any excess adhesive.

Select a patch that extends at least ½ inch beyond the damaged area, then trace the patch onto the tire. Apply adhesive to the patch using the dot pattern shown in the instructions and immediately position it over the damaged area.

Apply even pressure to the patch for approximately 3 minutes, ensuring the edges and corners are fully adhered. Allow the repair to cure for 10 minutes, then inflate the tire and check for leaks.

You can watch the repair process in action by clicking here.

Tire Sidewall Repair Testimonials

Sound too good to be true? We get that a lot. To demonstrate the durability and flexibility of GlueTread patches, we intentionally damaged all four tires and completed the entire Rubicon Trail. You can view the full video here.

GlueTread is recommended as a temporary sidewall repair. However, many customers report getting months or even years of use from a properly applied patch.

One customer said, “To my friends' astonishment, I was aired up and riding in 3 minutes. I rode the remaining 3 days on that tire doing a total of 160 miles after the patch. Believe me, we are GNCC racers and ride hard and fast. Best tire repair out there!”

Tire sidewall damage doesn't have to mean tossing your tire. Thousands of customers have successfully repaired sidewall damage with GlueTread. If you'd like to learn more about sidewall repair, visit our Off-Road Tire Repair Guide for additional tips, FAQs, and product recommendations.

Tire Sidewall Damage Frequently Asked Questions

Can tire sidewall damage really be repaired?

In many cases, yes. Small punctures, cuts, and other sidewall damage on tubeless tires can often be repaired using an external patch. The success of the repair depends on the size, location, and severity of the damage.

How long does a sidewall repair last?

GlueTread repairs are intended as a temporary solution until the tire can be replaced. However, many customers report getting months or even years of use from a properly applied repair, and some repairs last the remaining life of the tire.

What kind of vehicle will this sidewall repair process work on?

GlueTread can be used on any tubeless tire, this includes ATVs, SxS vehicles, overlanding rigs, Jeeps, trucks, tractors, lawn mowers, and more.

I've used plugs before and they work, so what's the benefit of GlueTread? 

There is a place for plugs! GlueTread specializes in repairing sidewall damage and can provide a longer-term repair. We've had customers report that their GlueTread patch outlasted the remaining life of the tire.

Do I need to remove the tire from the vehicle for the sidewall repair? 

No. GlueTread is designed as an external repair, allowing most sidewall damage to be repaired without removing the tire from the wheel or vehicle.

Have Additional Questions About Tire Sidewall Repair?

If you're unsure whether your tire damage can be repaired or need help choosing the right product, explore our Off-Road Tire Repair Guide and Frequently Asked Questions page for additional information.

Still need help? Contact us at info@gluetread.com and we'll be happy to assist.