Does a small cut on the tire sidewall require a new tire?
3 Answers
It is better to replace it, otherwise there may be potential hazards. Here is the relevant information: 1. Specification and model representation: Tires are important components of a car, and there are many specifications and models of tires, with different specifications and models suitable for different types of vehicles. The specification and model identification is usually on the side of the tire, represented by a series of alphanumeric characters, corresponding to the tire's tread width, aspect ratio, type, rim size, load index, and speed rating. 2. Speed rating: According to the different maximum speeds they can withstand, tire speed ratings can be divided into different grades from A to Z, with grade A further subdivided into eight different grades from A1 to A8. The further back the letter representing the tire speed rating is, the better the tire performance.
As a parent who frequently shuttles my kids to school, I'm particularly sensitive to every detail of my vehicle. A cut on the tire sidewall is absolutely not a minor issue, as this is the weakest part of the tire - even slight damage can lead to a blowout risk. First, you must check the depth of that small cut - if you can feel the inner cords with your fingernail or it seems deep, you must replace the tire immediately. Safety is no joking matter. I've personally encountered a similar situation before where a small scratch rapidly expanded within a short time; fortunately, I spotted it in time to avoid an accident. If there's no obvious deep crack and it's just a superficial scratch, you can closely monitor its condition during daily driving, checking for air leaks when washing the car by spraying water on it. But overall, for family safety, I recommend having a professional at a repair shop evaluate it as soon as possible - don't gamble with lives to save a few hundred dollars. Tire condition directly affects driving stability, and the consequences of a high-speed blowout are unthinkable. Never be negligent about this.
As a company employee, I meticulously manage my daily living expenses. A small cut on the tire sidewall? Don't rush to spend money on a new tire immediately. First, assess the situation: if that cut is just a superficial scratch without exposing inner fibers and there's no air leakage, it might still be usable for a while. But make it a habit to check weekly whether it's expanding or leaking air – a simple soapy water test will do. Remember though, sidewalls can't be repaired like treads. When replacement is truly needed, consider discounted models from brands or a good-condition used tire to balance the budget. While safety comes first, wise spending is also life wisdom – last time I faced a similar issue, I monitored it for two weeks before confirming no replacement was needed, saving a good amount. Also pay more attention to vehicle maintenance, like regular tire pressure adjustments to avoid extra stress, which helps extend tire lifespan.
