Tyre Repair Kits in Australia: Legalities, Safety, and When to Use Them
Tyre repair kits are legal to use in Australia for emergency roadside repairs. According to Australian tyre standards, a plug repair performed from the outside of the tyre is classified as a temporary emergency repair. It is designed to get you to a tyre shop — not as a permanent fix. You can only repair punctures in the tread area, never the sidewall.
You are kilometres from the nearest town, and the tyre pressure warning light pings on. You have a puncture. You pull out a tyre repair kit (often called a string or plug kit). It fixes the tyre in minutes.
But as you drive away, a question nags at you: Is this actually legal in Australia? There is a lot of misinformation about tyre repairs. This article clears up the confusion so you know exactly where you stand.
The Short Answer
According to Australian tyre standards, a repair performed from the outside of the tyre (using a string plug) is considered a temporary emergency repair. It is designed to get you out of trouble and to a tyre shop — it is NOT a permanent fix. Using one is perfectly legal for roadside emergencies.
The Legal and Safety Distinction
The Law
There is no specific law that says you will be fined instantly for having a plug in your tyre. However, a vehicle can be deemed unroadworthy if the tyre is not maintained to safety standards during a roadworthiness inspection.
The Standard
A permanent repair requires the tyre to be removed from the rim. A mechanic must inspect the inside for sidewall damage and apply a mushroom plug (a patch and stem combination) from the inside.
The Risk
If you drive on a string plug for months, moisture can enter the steel belts of the tyre, causing rust and eventual belt separation (blowout). This is why temporary repairs should be made permanent as soon as possible.
When Can You Safely Use a Repair Kit?
You can use a repair kit to get you home or to a workshop safely if all of these conditions are met:
The Puncture Must Be in the Tread
You can only repair the flat belt area of the tyre that touches the road. This is the reinforced section designed to withstand road contact.
No Sidewall Damage
Never, ever plug a sidewall. The sidewall flexes constantly while driving, and a plug will pop out or cause a catastrophic zipper failure at speed.
Small Hole Only
The puncture must be from a small object like a nail or screw (typically under 6mm diameter). Larger holes or cuts require professional assessment.
Ready to learn the process? Read our step-by-step guide on how to use a tyre repair kit properly.
What You Should Never Repair
Sidewall punctures, cuts longer than 6mm, tyres with existing damage, or run-flat tyres that have been driven on while flat. These require professional assessment or replacement. When in doubt, call for roadside assistance — your emergency kit should include alternative options.
The Tread Depth Trap: 1.5mm vs 1.6mm
While checking your tyre for repair, you should also check your tread depth. This is where many Australian drivers get confused about legal requirements.
The national rule under Australian Design Rules (ADR) specifies a minimum tread depth of 1.5mm. However, NSW and global standards require 1.6mm minimum tread depth.
Safety recommendation: Regardless of the law, braking performance drops off dramatically below 3.0mm. Tyres should be replaced before they hit the legal minimum. Understanding how stopping distances increase with worn tyres will show you why tread depth matters so much, especially in wet weather.
The 20 Cent Coin Test
Don't have a tread depth gauge? Take an Australian 20 cent coin. Place it into the tread groove. If the tread doesn't reach the platypus's bill, your tyre is likely below 3mm and needs replacing soon.
Be Prepared for Punctures
The My Garage Hero Tyre Repair Kit includes everything you need for emergency roadside repairs. Pair it with the Boost N' Inflate for the complete puncture solution — repair the hole and reinflate without waiting for help.
Temporary Fix, Permanent Peace of Mind
A tyre repair kit is an essential piece of safety equipment, especially as many modern cars (and EVs) do not come with spare tyres. It is perfectly legal to use one to rescue yourself from the roadside.
Just remember: treat it as a get home solution, not a set and forget solution. Once you are back in civilisation, visit a tyre professional to have the repair properly inspected and made permanent. Learn the correct technique before you need it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to drive with a plugged tyre in Australia?
Yes, it is legal to drive with a plugged tyre in Australia as a temporary emergency repair. There is no specific law that prohibits plug repairs. However, the repair should be made permanent by a tyre professional as soon as possible, as a vehicle can be deemed unroadworthy if tyres are not maintained to safety standards.
How long can you drive on a tyre plug?
A tyre plug is designed as a temporary repair to get you to a workshop safely. While there is no specific distance limit, you should have the repair made permanent within a few days. Driving on a plug for extended periods allows moisture to enter the steel belts, which can cause rust and eventual tyre failure.
Can you plug a tyre sidewall?
No, you should never plug a tyre sidewall. The sidewall flexes constantly while driving, and a plug will not hold. Attempting to repair a sidewall can cause a catastrophic zipper failure at speed. Sidewall damage always requires tyre replacement.
What is the legal minimum tyre tread depth in Australia?
The national minimum tread depth under Australian Design Rules is 1.5mm. However, NSW requires 1.6mm, which aligns with global standards. For safety, tyres should be replaced before reaching these minimums — braking performance drops significantly below 3mm of tread depth.
What is the difference between a temporary and permanent tyre repair?
A temporary repair is done from the outside of the tyre using a string plug kit — this is what roadside repair kits use. A permanent repair requires the tyre to be removed from the rim so a mechanic can inspect the inside for damage and apply a mushroom plug (patch and stem combination) from the inside.
Do I need a tyre repair kit if my car has a spare tyre?
A tyre repair kit is still useful even with a spare tyre. It allows you to fix minor punctures quickly without the physical effort of changing a wheel, and provides a backup if you get a second puncture. Many modern vehicles no longer include spare tyres, making repair kits essential. Learn more in our essential guide to tyre repair kits.
Related Reading
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fix a Flat Tyre with a Repair Kit
Stopping Distances in Australia: The Wet vs Dry Reality Check
The Ultimate Australian Roadside Emergency Kit Checklist
Essential Guide to Tyre Repair Kits
Why Tyre Pressure Matters: A Complete Guide