Keep your car in its best shape from the bottom up. Shop for tires today, then schedule a fast, easy installation appointment at Firestone Complete Auto Care.
Cities are growing. New roads are being built, and old ones are getting a face lift. Everywhere you look, it seems construction is in progress! Unfortunately, this can mean a higher chance of a flat or damaged tire caused by debris in the road. If your 1997 Buick Riviera is in need of a tire inspection or possible flat tire repair, Firestone Complete Auto Care has your back. In some cases, a tire doesn’t have to be replaced – it can be plugged and patched with a simple repair. Depending on the damage, though, a repair might not be the right move. Our technicians can determine which option is best for your situation. We'll start by evaluating the state of wear, the location of damage, type of damage, and the size of the damage.
If a repair on your 1997 Buick Riviera tire is feasible and safe, we’ll get to work on the steps to fix it: (1) Remove the tire from the wheel for inspection and repair, (2) use a filler to close up the puncture (this is to keep moisture from getting in), and (3) secure and seal the inner tire liner to ensure the tire is airtight.
Unfortunately, some 1997 Buick Riviera tire damage can’t be effectively repaired. For tires that have less than 2/32nd inch of tread left, a repair simply isn’t possible – even if the tire damage is minimal. At this tread depth, the tire is worn out and must be replaced. If your tire is not yet worn down, there are other forms of damage that simply can’t be repaired, like a puncture in the tire that is ¼ inch or greater in diameter; a puncture in the tire sidewall (or anywhere else that’s not within the tread area); multiple punctures that are too close together (less than 16 inches between them); and major cuts or separated treads.
Depending on what Buick recommends for your car, you’ll want to consider purchasing one new tire, two new tires, or a new full set. For vehicles with AWD, manufacturers recommend replacing all four tires simultaneously. This is because the AWD system can only function optimally when all tires are uniform. Just replaced your tires and only one is damaged? You may not need to buy another new full set after all. You might be able to replace one tire as long as it's the same brand, type, and size as the other three. Need help? A tire technician can walk you through the options and help you determine what’s best for your vehicle’s performance and longevity.
A flat tire is a surefire sign of tire damage, but other indicators of tire issues aren’t so easy to spot. Inconspicuous issues like bulging sidewalls, exhaust noise, leaks, or bent rims may indicate issues that need immediate attention. Stay ahead of potentially dangerous tire issues. Bring your 1997 Buick Riviera in for a tire inspection.
Your Buick Riviera runs best when it’s well cared for. Keep your car running newer, longer with repairs from Firestone Complete Auto Care. Learn more about 1997 Buick Riviera repairs below.