Is it a problem if the side of the tire has a small cut?
2 Answers
Generally, it's not a big issue. However, it's best to inspect the side carefully. Here is some relevant knowledge about tire sidewall damage: 1. Introduction The weakest part of a tire is the sidewall. Most tires only have one or, in rare cases, two thin layers of fabric reinforcement. If the sidewall is deeply damaged or shows signs of bulging, it is recommended to replace the tire promptly to prevent a blowout. If the spare tire is full-size, you can purchase a new one and use it on the same axle as the spare. It is essential to choose a tire of the same brand, model, size, tread pattern, and grade. For non-full-size spare tires, the tread wear should be roughly consistent. When the original tire's tread wear is excessive, it is advisable to buy a pair of new tires for replacement. It is recommended to install the new tires on the rear axle, as this helps prevent oversteer at certain speeds, making it easier to control the vehicle and avoid skidding or loss of control. 2. Replacement requirements: The weakest part of a tire is the sidewall. Most tires only have one or, in rare cases, two thin layers of fabric reinforcement. If the sidewall is deeply damaged or shows signs of bulging, it is recommended to replace the tire promptly to prevent a blowout. If the spare tire is full-size, you can purchase a new one and use it on the same axle as the spare. It is essential to choose a tire of the same brand, model, size, tread pattern, and grade. For non-full-size spare tires, the tread wear should be roughly consistent. When the original tire's tread wear is excessive, it is advisable to buy a pair of new tires for replacement. It is recommended to install the new tires on the rear axle, as this helps prevent oversteer at certain speeds, making it easier to control the vehicle and avoid skidding or loss of control. Additionally, in rainy or snowy weather, insufficient rear tire grip can cause drifting, while insufficient front tire grip can usually be corrected by steering, but rear tire grip loss is generally harder to control.
A small nick on the tire sidewall is nothing to take lightly! The sidewall is particularly vulnerable—just like a cut on your skin, a surface tear might damage the internal structural layers. With my extensive driving experience, I’ve seen many similar cases: even minor scratches can amplify risks under intense driving conditions. During high-speed turns or long-distance trips, tire temperatures soar, and the damaged area may fail under pressure, leading to bulging or even a blowout—definitely no joke. I recommend testing the depth yourself first—insert a coin into the nick; if it’s deeper than 2mm or you can feel the rigid cord layer, the tire must be replaced. Even if it looks shallow, avoid high-speed driving and get it professionally assessed ASAP. When parking, steer clear of curbs or anything that could scrape the sidewall, and regularly maintain and inspect tire health to keep your car safer.
