How Deep Can a Sidewall Cut Be on Michelin Tires?

[TaylorMarie]

Tire sidewall cuts exceeding 4mm require immediate replacement. Below are key tire maintenance precautions: 1. Preventing Blowouts: Blowouts can result from multiple factors including tire quality issues, improper inflation pressure (either too high or too low), vehicle overloading or uneven loading, excessive speed, incorrect driving techniques, and overheating. Regular tire inspection and maintenance are crucial for prevention. 2. Avoiding Underinflation Damage: Maintaining correct tire pressure is fundamental to tire care. Check inflation pressure before driving, during trips, and after parking to identify and address any pressure loss promptly, thereby preventing underinflation damage.

[WyattDella]

The allowable depth of sidewall cuts is actually a safety issue. With over 20 years of driving experience, I've seen many cases where minor cuts led to major accidents. As a brand, Michelin follows industry standards: if the cut is deeper than 1mm or exposes the inner cords, the tire must be replaced immediately. Unlike the tread which has thick rubber layers, the sidewall is very thin - even slightly deeper cuts can compromise its structure, making blowouts at high speeds extremely dangerous. For routine self-checks, use a key or caliper to measure depth - shallow scratches are fine, but don't hesitate if it's deep. Never risk safety to save a few hundred bucks, especially before long trips - always inspect thoroughly. Safety first, as we always remind friends, regular maintenance is the golden rule.

[LeAyla]

Speaking of tire scratch depth, I once had a personal experience with my Michelin tires after three years of use. The sidewall got scratched with a groove, initially just about 1-2 mm deep, and I didn’t pay much attention to it. Then one day on the highway, I suddenly felt the car shaking violently. Upon checking, the scratch had cracked open—nearly causing an accident. Later, I specifically consulted a mechanic, who said that exposed cords are a red line—no matter the brand, it’s unsafe. The inspection is actually simple: just run your finger over it; if there’s a noticeable dent or you see white fibers, it’s time to replace. New tires aren’t cheap, but they’re much cheaper than repair costs. Daily habits like avoiding scraping curbs when parking can extend their lifespan. Safety is far more important than saving money.

[VonKeira]

Checking the depth of sidewall cuts on tires is quite simple, and I usually do it myself: use a card or ruler to measure the depth of the cut. If it exceeds 1mm, be cautious—Michelin also advises this. The sidewalls are thin, and deep cuts can damage the cord structure, leading to unstable tire pressure or even a blowout, which is extremely dangerous at high speeds. Shallow cuts are fine and can be ignored. The key is to regularly inspect visually and by touch, and replace the tire immediately if any issues are found. Don’t skimp on this—safety should never be compromised. For prevention, it’s best to avoid rough roads or obstacles whenever possible.