Can a scratched car tire continue to be used?
3 Answers
Tire scratches need to be judged based on the severity of the damage to determine whether they can continue to be used. Details are as follows: 1. If the tire surface is slightly damaged and has little impact on the tire's structural strength, a new tire with minor scratches can continue to be used. However, for an old tire with scratches, replacement is recommended. 2. If the damage is large in area or deep, the tire cannot continue to be used and should be replaced promptly. During summer, check tire pressure regularly. Air pressure is the lifeblood of a tire; both excessively high and low pressure will shorten its lifespan. Always check tire pressure before driving and avoid maintaining excessively high pressure to significantly reduce tire wear.
I always take extra caution whenever I see tire scuffs, because the sidewall is the most vulnerable part of a tire. If the damage is deep enough to expose the inner cords, you must never continue using it. I remember a colleague of mine once drove on such a tire, only to have it blow out on the highway—it scared him half to death and nearly caused an accident. Tires are like the feet of a car; once damaged, they can't bear the vehicle's weight properly and can compromise braking and cornering, posing serious safety risks. I recommend getting it checked at a professional repair shop immediately. If it's just a superficial scratch, it might be okay for temporary use, but deep damage requires a replacement. Always be mindful to avoid curbs and sharp objects while driving to protect these crucial components.
Whether a scratched tire can still be used depends on the severity of the damage. If I'm on a tight budget, I'd first assess the extent of the damage: if it's just a minor surface scratch that hasn't reached the sidewall, it might be okay for short-term use, but avoid highways or long trips—the risks and potential costs are too high. A new tire isn't cheap, but compared to repair bills or accident expenses, it's a worthwhile investment. I once tried to push my luck with a damaged tire, and a small issue turned into major wear, costing me thousands in chassis repairs later. Financially speaking, replacing it early saves money and hassle, not to mention avoiding potential insurance premium hikes. Regularly checking tire pressure also extends tire life—prevention is the real money-saver.
