What are the puncture repair rules — what's legal to fix?

UK puncture repair rules

Tyre repairs in the UK should follow British Standard BS AU 159, which sets out what can and cannot be safely repaired.

Requirements for a legal repair

• Puncture located within the central three-quarters of the tread width
• Hole diameter no more than 6mm
• The tyre has not been driven on while flat or with very low pressure
• No secondary sidewall or structural damage
• The repair must be a combination plug-and-patch applied from inside the tyre

External-only plugs applied from outside the tyre are not considered a permanent, safe repair under British Standards.