Those who encountered a flat tire before already know the products Fix a Flat and Slime. But what are the advantages of these tire sealants? And should you use one instead of the other? To find out, read through our detailed guide below.
How Does Fix A Flat Work?
Fix a Flat is a product that provides a quick fix for a flat tire. If you are out on the road and need to make an urgent appointment, nothing is worse than a flat tire. However, you can find a quick temporary solution with Fix a Flat.
The Fix a Flat product comes in a special can. It basically seals the hole in your tire and inflates the tire again at the same time; this means you can quickly fix a tire in the middle of nowhere with little knowledge. No need for special tools or a spare tire, this can fix everything in minimal time.
One of the interesting aspects of this product is that it is an eco-friendly product. By increasing the lifespan of your tire, you keep your old tires from the landfill. On top of that, the can is completely recyclable, which means it can go in your regular recycling bin.
As is the case with all tire sealants, we must mention that this product is only a temporary solution. Getting your tire fixed professionally or even replacing it is always the better option.
How Does Slime Tire Sealant Work?
Slime tire sealant works quite similar to Fix a Flat, although the product claims to be able to fix tire punctures repeatedly for up to two years. That being said, the product warning does state that it is only suitable for vehicles that do not go on the highway. So, if you use this product and travel on the highway regularly, you should get your tire replaced as soon as possible.
Like Fix a Flat, Slime is a product that is environmentally friendly. It is non-toxic, non-corrosive, non-flammable and water soluble. The product does not contain any aerosol either, which makes it an eco-friendly choice.
Slime can be used on almost all tires. It is suitable for bicycles, motorcycles, cars, trucks, and ATVs. However, the amount of the product used for each respective tire can differ according to the tire type.
So, Which Is Best?
It is difficult to determine the best product between the two, especially when they have such similar functionalities. That being said, Fix a Flat seems to be easier to use and is therefore recommended for those who want a quick fix on the road.
If you are looking for something that can last a little longer before you have to repair the tire, then Slime may provide the better solution.
When Should I Use Tire Sealant?
The usefulness of tire sealant and its applications has been a widely discussed subject. To ensure you are fully informed, here are the pros of tire sealant.
Quick solution
There is no denying that a tire sealant can provide a solution for a puncture in minimal time. If you are not able to change a tire for whatever reason, a sealant can be just the product to save your trip.
Budget friendly
Purchasing new tires can be quite costly, so a tire sealant can buy you some time. If you do not have the money for brand-new tires, then use the sealant until you are able to afford them.
Puncture prevention
There is some research that suggests that sealant can prevent tire punctures. If you often travel along difficult and harsh road surfaces, then a tire sealant could increase the lifespan of your existing tires. While it is not a permanent solution for tire punctures, it could decrease the cost of having to acquire new tires over the course of time.
When Shouldn’t I Use Tire Sealant?
Tire sealants have a number of pros and cons. Now, it is time to look at the potential disadvantages. So, if you are unsure if you will use a sealant, be sure to read through both for additional insight.
Tire damage
When you use tire sealant for the first time, it is vital to do your research and read the instructions accompanying the product very carefully. After all, incorrect use of the tire sealant could actually damage your tires.
The inner working of tire sealant is the very thing that could damage the tire. When you use sealant, it will block the puncture. However, the sealant must heat up in order to perform its function. If the sealant does not warm up fast, it could lead to the sealant piling up in the tire and cause problems such as wheel misalignment. In addition to that, it can have an impact on tire pressure if used incorrectly.
Corrosion
Some sealants can cause your wheels to corrode, and this will cost you a lot more than a simple tire replacement. This problem is caused by leaking tire sealant, which can be caused by an inferior product or by incorrect use of the sealant in question.
Future repair problems
Depending on the type of tire sealant you use; your mechanic may refuse fixing the wheel if you have used a certain sealant. There are tire sealants out there that contain harsh chemicals, which is more difficult to work with for your mechanic.
In these cases, your mechanic may advise you get a completely new tire. If you do want to use a sealant in an emergency, call your local garage and inform about the sealants that are safe for you to use.
Pros and cons Of Tire Sealant
Tire sealant has as much benefits as it has disadvantages, so you should always use it carefully. However, if you consider the tips we have given in this article, you should be able to use tire sealant safely when an emergency does occur. Still, we always recommend getting your tire fixed permanently as soon as possible.
