Is a small cut on the side of the tire serious?
2 Answers
The sidewall of a tire is the thinnest part of the entire tire, yet it undergoes the most significant deformation and stress during driving, bearing substantial loads. Therefore, regardless of the type of tire, if there is damage to the sidewall, both tire manufacturers and automobile manufacturers explicitly state that sidewall damage or air leakage cannot be repaired—the tire must be replaced. Below is relevant information: 1. Due to the structure of the tire, the sidewall is the weakest part, consisting only of a thin layer of rubber and the cord ply, which is a mesh layer woven from cotton threads and rayon. Despite its fragility, the sidewall supports the air pressure that holds up the entire vehicle's weight. If the sidewall is cut, especially when the cord ply is damaged, it completely disrupts the structural stress of the sidewall, significantly increasing the risk of a tire blowout. 2. Therefore, even if the sidewall has a scratch but the cords are not exposed, it is advisable to visit a repair facility to replace the tire as soon as possible. If the cords are exposed, drive carefully, avoid high speeds, and immediately proceed to a repair facility for tire replacement.
I happened to encounter the same situation last week. There was a small cut on the sidewall of my tire, and since it looked minor, I ignored it. The next day while driving, I noticed the car was shaking badly. After pulling over, I found the tire had gone flat—fortunately, I wasn’t on the highway. Later, the mechanic told me that the sidewall is the most vulnerable part of a tire, and even a small cut could damage its internal structure, increasing the risk of a blowout. I’ve learned my lesson—now, I get any scratch checked immediately. Although buying a new tire costs money, it’s far better than risking an accident. I’ve also become more careful to avoid curbs or piles of gravel while driving, as protecting tires means protecting my own safety. During routine maintenance, I make it a habit to check tire conditions—never overlook small issues.
