How deep does a tire scratch need to be before replacement?
2 Answers
Tire replacement depends on the depth of the scratch: 1. If the steel cord ply is exposed, immediate replacement is necessary; 2. Even if only the steel cord ply is visible, replacement is recommended for driving safety; 3. If the scratch on the tire tread is shallow, affecting only a small portion of the surface, and the vehicle is mostly driven in urban areas, a simple tire repair may suffice. Solutions for tread scratches: 1. If the damage is minor and doesn't affect usage, regularly check for cracks, accelerated wear, or bulges near the scratched area—replace the tire if these signs appear; 2. If the front tire is damaged, consider swapping it with a rear tire for better safety in case of a blowout; 3. It's advisable to have the tire inspected by professionals at a specialized tire repair shop and follow their recommendations.
A few days ago, my tire got scratched by a roadside stone. I asked the mechanic at the repair shop, and he said the depth of the scratch is crucial. If you can see the internal cords or metal wires of the tire, it must be replaced immediately; otherwise, it could easily blow out. Generally, if the depth exceeds 2mm and exposes the internal structure, it's dangerous. Also, if the tread wears down below 1.6mm, it should be replaced because the grip is significantly reduced, making the car prone to skidding in the rain. I usually use a one-yuan coin to measure the depth: insert the coin into the tread—if the entire national emblem side is visible, it means the depth is less than 1.6mm. If the scratch isn’t deep and only on the surface, it might still hold for a while, but you should watch for any cracking or bulging. Safety is the top priority—replacing a new tire doesn’t cost much, and regularly checking tire pressure and wear can prevent accidents. Remember, the sidewall of the tire is the most vulnerable, so be extra careful if it gets scratched.
