Does it matter if the outer part of the tire is damaged?
3 Answers
If a piece of the outer layer of the tire is damaged, it is generally best to take it to a repair shop for inspection. If it can be properly repaired through standard procedures, there will be no impact. Below are some precautions for using car tires: 1. Bulging: If the tire shows signs of bulging, it needs to be replaced immediately, as this increases the risk of a blowout. 2. Tire lifespan: Tires are a crucial component of a car, directly affecting driving stability and safety. Being rubber products, tires will degrade over time with prolonged use. Under normal conditions, tires installed on a car can last up to four years. 3. Regularly check tire pressure: It is important to frequently monitor the tire pressure during regular use. Tire pressure should neither be too high nor too low. Excessive pressure reduces the contact area between the tire and the road, increasing the risk of a blowout and potentially shortening the tire's lifespan.
A few days ago, I also noticed a small cut on the sidewall of my car tire and immediately sensed trouble. I drove straight to the repair shop for an inspection. The expert said that external tire damage should never be ignored, especially on the sidewalls, which bear significant pressure and pose a high risk of air leakage or blowouts. If it suddenly splits while driving, losing control of the direction is extremely dangerous and could also harm pedestrians or other vehicles. Even small scratches on the tread, if deep enough, can lead to slow leaks, eventually requiring towing services. I suggest you pull over immediately and assess the damage; if the inner cord layer is visible, you must not drive any further and should call for roadside assistance. When parking, avoid getting too close to curbs, and regularly check tire condition and pressure—these small habits can prevent major troubles down the road.
Last month, my tire got scratched by a stone. I asked the repair shop technician, and he said it depends on the location and size of the damage. If the tread is slightly damaged and the internal structure is intact, a cheap patch costing just a few dozen dollars would suffice, with no impact on usage. However, if the sidewall is damaged, a new tire is necessary—otherwise, driving on highways could lead to accidents, and the combined cost of repairs and towing would far exceed that of a new tire. After weighing the options, I chose to replace the tire, prioritizing safety over savings. In daily driving, being mindful of road debris, such as avoiding gravel piles, can help reduce such damage. Opting for a higher-quality tire brand also extends service life, making it a more economical choice in the long run.
