Motorists Increasingly Purchase Liquid Tyre Sealant Known as Dawa; Here's Why

A driver using a liquid tyre sealant on July 17, 2017.
A driver using a liquid tyre sealant on July 17, 2017.
Photo
Driving Magazine

Punctures are the bane of drivers as they usually inconvenience motorists by wasting time and money. 

Liquid tyre sealants, however, can aid motorists in managing punctures and resuming smooth rides before visiting a mechanic. 

According to Joseph Ochieng’, a tyre expert based at Kirinyaga Road in Nairobi, liquid tyre sealants effectively stop punctures and are cost-effective.

“It costs Ksh300 to put the dawa in one tyre. To put it in all four tyres of a car, it takes around 30 minutes,” he noted.

A punctured tyre in September 2017.
A punctured tyre in September 2017.
Photo
Dexel Tyre & Auto Centre

In many garages in Nairobi, liquid tyre sealant is colloquially known as dawa because it acts fast to stop a tire from running flat.

The can comes with a hose attached to the tyre's nozzle. One then empties the gel inside the can into the tyre.

When a puncture happens, the escaping air forces the liquid into the hole, which seals the hole.

According to tyre experts, Oko Tyre Sealant, the benefits of liquid tyre sealant include:

Prevents flat tyres

Trye sealants reduce puncture risks and minimize vehicle downtime for tubed and tubeless tyres

Saves costs

The sealing agent reduces costs incurred from puncture repair. It also aids one in seeking tow services or cheap repairs. 

A photo of a flat tyre in January 2021.
A photo of a flat tyre in January 2021.
Photo
Kaltire

Ease of use

It’s easy to use and store. It also conditions and cools the tyre, extending tyre life by an average of 20 per cent.

Function 

It works in all conditions, whether rough or smooth roads and works well in hot or cold weather conditions. It is also non-flammable and non-corrosive.

However, the sealant can lose effectiveness when a tyre has wide holes. Motorists are also advised to visit a service station after using liquid tyre sealants to ascertain whether the tyre needs to be repaired or replaced.

According to automobile experts, liquid tyre sealant should be replaced every two years for maximum efficiency.