Is it serious if the tire sidewall gets scuffed black?
3 Answers
This depends on the degree of tire abrasion. If the scratches on the tire sidewall are not severe and do not damage the inner cord layer of the tire, there is not much impact on the tire. It should be noted that if the inner cord layer of the tire is damaged, the tire needs to be replaced directly in such cases. It's important to know that the sidewall is the weakest part of the tire, and the inner cord layer plays a crucial role in reinforcing the tire. Once damaged, if not replaced promptly, it may lead to a tire blowout. More details are as follows: 1. There are generally three types of tire wear: wear on the outer tread pattern, wear on the middle tread pattern, and wear on the inner tread pattern. Incorrect tire pressure, either too high or too low, can cause uneven wear on different parts of the tire. 2. Causes of inner and outer wear: The issue of inner tread pattern wear is similar to that of outer tread pattern wear. Abnormal vehicle dynamic balance or incorrect tire pressure can lead to abnormal tire wear.
It's indeed important to be cautious about blackened tire sidewalls and not overlook them. I once scraped my tire against a curb while driving, causing it to blacken. At first, I thought it was just dirt and didn’t pay much attention. A few days later, upon inspection, I discovered deep scratches that exposed the internal steel belt layer, indicating structural damage. Continuing to use such a tire could lead to a blowout at high speeds, which is extremely dangerous. I recommend checking immediately if you notice blackening: if it’s just slight surface discoloration, wipe it clean with a cloth; but if there are cracks or bulges, replace the tire right away—safety comes first. Tire sidewalls are particularly thin, lacking the thick rubber protection found on the tread, making them more vulnerable to damage. When driving, try to avoid scraping against curbs, and always check the distance when parking.
I personally experienced a similar situation when my new car scraped against the curb, turning the tire sidewall black, which really worried me. I rushed to a tire shop for inspection, and the technician said if it was just superficial blackening, it might be fine, but we needed to check for deep cuts or bulges, as these could weaken the tire and lead to a blowout. In the end, my tire had minor damage and had to be replaced, costing me 800 yuan—painful but reassuring. I learned my lesson and now take turns more slowly, especially after rain to avoid skidding. Remember to check your tires during regular maintenance; unstable tire pressure increases the risk of sidewall stress, and maintaining proper pressure can prevent many issues.
