How to repair a small cut on the side of a tire?
3 Answers
It is necessary to check the extent of the damage. Generally, most cars use radial tires, which have a relatively simple internal structure. Although a cut on the side of the tire may not lead to a blowout, it is not advisable to continue using a damaged tire for an extended period. It is recommended that car owners replace the tire immediately.
As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, I know that even a small cut on the sidewall of a tire is no trivial matter. The sidewall bears the greatest pressure, and a tiny nick can gradually develop into a crack, potentially leading to a blowout. Last time, I scraped against a roadside protrusion, leaving a shallow mark, but I still replaced the tire. Professionals always advise against patching sidewall damage because repairs can't restore sufficient strength, making it dangerous during high-speed driving or sharp turns. Once, I took a chance and tried to patch it, only to have the tire go flat midway, nearly causing an accident. Now, I make it a habit to inspect my tires regularly and address issues early. Safety comes first—it's far more important than saving money. When it comes to sidewall damage, replacement is the best option.
From a DIY car enthusiast's perspective, repairing small cuts on tire sidewalls carries high risks. I've used temporary tire sealants by lightly applying them to shallow scratches, but those are only for emergency fixes to reach a repair shop. Never attempt to patch deep cracks yourself—it's extremely dangerous as the thin rubber layer on the sidewall can't withstand continuous impacts. My routine is to first measure the scratch depth—anything deeper than 1.5mm means immediate replacement, while minor ones might be monitored for a week without worsening before deciding. Don't repeat my youthful mistake of cutting corners by not replacing tires—blowouts lead to costlier repairs plus unnecessary anxiety.
