How deep should a sidewall scratch be to require tire replacement?
2 Answers
Tire sidewall scratches reaching 4 millimeters require replacement. Tires are essential components of a vehicle, serving the following functions: 1. Supporting the entire weight of the vehicle and bearing its load; 2. Transmitting traction and braking torque, ensuring adhesion between the wheels and the road surface; 3. Reducing and absorbing vibrations and impact forces during driving, ensuring safe and stable operation. Maintaining standard tire pressure can reduce tire wear, eliminate potential hazards, and extend service life. Situations requiring tire replacement include: 1. Severe tire wear; 2. Aged tires with numerous small cracks in the tread pattern; 3. Tires with deformed treads or damaged beads; 4. Tires with bulges.
I always pay close attention to tire safety, especially the sidewall area which is particularly vulnerable. If the scratch depth exceeds 1mm or exposes the cord layer, immediate replacement is mandatory. The sidewall lacks the thick rubber layer found in the tread, meaning even a minor scratch can compromise structural integrity, leading to dangerous blowouts while driving. I personally experienced this during a parking inspection - discovering a 1.5mm deep scratch with exposed cords. Fortunately, I hadn't entered the highway, or the consequences could have been dire. Routine activities like car washing or parking often risk curb scrapes, so I've developed a habit of thorough bi-weekly inspections, feeling for scratch depth. Shallow scratches under 0.5mm might be temporarily acceptable, but high-speed driving should be avoided. While tire replacement costs money, life is priceless. I constantly remind friends never to gamble with safety.
