Can a damaged tire sidewall be repaired?
3 Answers
In fact, the sidewall of a tire can be repaired, but only if the tire's cord layer is not severely damaged. Here are the reasons: 1. A bulge in the sidewall is the result of severe breakage of the tire's internal cords. In such cases, the tire has no repair value and must be replaced with a new one. 2. The so-called "severe damage" refers to situations where the sidewall rubber is completely cracked. A cracked rubber means the tire's airtight layer, cord layer, and protective layer have been completely compromised, rendering the tire unusable. 3. If the sidewall damage is not severe, it can be repaired. However, the repaired tire loses its original durability and safety. For safety reasons, such a repaired tire should only be used as a spare.
After driving for so many years, if the edge of the tire is damaged, my advice is not to repair it. This area usually lies in the sidewall, which supports the entire weight of the vehicle. After repair, it may not withstand the pressure and could suddenly blow out at high speeds, which is no joke. I remember last year my friend's car had this issue—he tried to save money by repairing it, but as soon as he hit the highway, an accident occurred. The tire exploded, nearly causing him to crash into the guardrail. So, safety first—don’t skimp on repair costs. Damage to the tire edge is usually caused by hitting hard objects or aging. Check for other signs of damage, like bulges or cracks, and replacing it with a new tire is the wise choice. Opt for reputable brands like Michelin or Goodyear—they’re durable and reliable. When driving, avoid potholes, and regularly visit a shop for tire balancing. Have a professional inspect them—don’t take risks.
From the perspective of tire structure, if the edge is damaged, don't even think about repairing it. The tire shoulder and sidewall are composed of single or double layers of steel wires and rubber, not as thick as the tread. Once damaged, patches can hardly adhere firmly, and the internal pressure will push them out, causing quick cracks. I've tried it myself when tinkering with cars—whether using cold patch or hot patch, none lasted more than a week. It's too dangerous. It's best to replace it outright without hesitation. Spend a few hundred bucks at a repair shop, have a mechanic perform a thorough inspection to see if it was caused by poor road conditions or overloading. By the way, tire edge damage is common with long-term exposure to sunlight or driving with low pressure, so regularly inflating to maintain standard tire pressure is key. Remember, safety is no small matter—don't gamble with luck. Replacing the tire now saves you bigger trouble later.
