Does a chunk of rubber missing from the outer side of the tire affect its use?

[Holly]

If a chunk of rubber is missing from the sidewall of the tire, it definitely cannot continue to be used. First, it's important to know that the sidewall is the weakest part of the tire, unlike the tread area which has higher protective strength. Once a chunk of rubber is missing, it's highly likely that the sidewall's cord layer has been damaged, significantly increasing the risk of a blowout. Below are some key points regarding a chunk of rubber missing from the tire: 1. During tire rotation, it is prone to bending and deformation: Over time, this can cause repair materials to detach (surge phenomenon). 2. The impact of a missing chunk from the sidewall is quite significant: Therefore, it is essential to replace it promptly. Additionally, it's advisable to inspect the tire sidewall at least once a month, as during parallel parking, even if the sidewall rubs against the curb, it can be hard to notice. Hence, regular inspections of the tire sidewall are crucial, including checking for any visible damage, bulges, punctures, aging, etc.

[DeJeremiah]

That day while driving, I scraped off a piece of rubber from the outer side of the tire and was worried if it would affect driving. Upon careful reflection, the tire sidewall is inherently thin. If the damage is deep enough to expose the cords, the airflow impact at high speeds could easily enlarge the crack or even cause a blowout, which is extremely dangerous. I once saw a friend get into an accident because of this, so I immediately stopped to check. Using my phone's flashlight, I inspected the wound and measured its depth—if it's less than 3mm, it might still be okay, but if it's deeper, you must replace the tire without hesitation, especially if you usually carry family members. Safety comes first; tires are the only part in contact with the road, so don't take any chances. Regular maintenance, checking tire pressure, and developing good habits to reduce roadside scrapes can all help prevent issues. Remember, if in doubt, go to a professional shop for an evaluation—don't push your luck.

[SanThomas]

As a daily driver for school runs, I pay extra attention to car safety details. Scuffed rubber on the outer tire sidewall might sound minor but could lead to major hazards, especially with deep damage—cornering or bumps may cause instability or even blowouts. Worried about my child's safety, I take immediate action: visually inspect the wound depth—if black fibers are exposed, don't drive; shallow ones are temporarily usable but avoid highways. Check if tire pressure is normal, as underinflated tires wear faster. Cost-wise, pricier tire replacements are worth it—better safe than sorry. Driving habits matter too: slow down near curbs to avoid scraping poles, minimizing such issues. Monthly DIY checks help—use a brush to clean tire grooves, spotting potential risks early.

[ClaireAnn]

From my experience, the key factor in rubber loss on the outer side of a tire lies in the depth of the damage. The sidewall is much thinner than the tread, so minor scuffing might only be superficial and won't affect daily driving. However, if the damage is deep enough to expose the cord fabric, you must replace the tire, otherwise there's a high risk of air leakage or blowout. Feel the damaged area with your hand - if it feels soft or has cracks, never gamble with your life. Checking for leaks is simple: apply soapy water and see if bubbles form. It's best not to use such damaged tires for high-speed driving, as they're prone to stability issues and increased noise. Regular maintenance checks, periodic rotation, and proper care may seem minor but significantly extend tire life and ensure safety.