Does a small chunk missing from a car tire have any impact?
3 Answers
If the damage does not expose the cord layer or steel wires, it can continue to be used after repair. However, if the cord layer or steel wires are exposed or the damage is on the tire sidewall, it is not recommended to continue using the tire, and it should be replaced. Tire structure: Tires are mainly composed of the tread, sidewall, shoulder, nylon cap ply, steel belt layer, cord layer, inner liner, and bead. Tire repair methods: The standard repair method for passenger car tires involves filling the tread damage with rubber and vulcanizing it, while also patching the carcass and repairing the inner liner. Common repair materials include mushroom plugs, regular patches, and rubber plugs.
During my years working at the auto shop, I've often seen friends bringing in their cars to check for tire impact damage. A small chunk of missing rubber might seem minor, but if it damages the internal cord layers of the tire body, the consequences can be serious. The tire sidewall is the most vulnerable area - even a small missing piece increases the risk of air leaks or blowouts, especially during high-speed driving when heat causes tire expansion. My advice is: don't take chances when this happens. First, have it professionally inspected with a flaw detector to check for exposed cords or bulges. In daily driving, avoid curbs and sharp objects, and regularly clean small stones from tire grooves to extend lifespan. Prevention is always more cost-effective than repairs after damage occurs - never compromise on safe driving.
As an ordinary office worker, I encounter minor mishaps during my daily commute, like scraping a small chunk off the tire against the curb. At first, I thought it was no big deal and ignored it as long as it didn't affect driving. But last month on a rainy day, that damaged spot suddenly caused a flat tire, and the car wobbled dangerously on the highway, scaring me to death. When I got home, my mechanic friend told me the tire wasn't deeply damaged and could still be fixed—just needed timely patching or replacement to avoid potential hazards. Now I've developed a habit of using my phone flashlight every week to check the tires for cracks or foreign objects. Don't underestimate these small details—they can save your life in critical moments. The cost is just a few hundred bucks, so don't skimp on it. Driving safety comes first—no room for carelessness.
