Is it serious if the tire sidewall rubs against a curb?
3 Answers
If a car tire has rubbed against a curb but shows no signs of air leakage or bulging, the impact is minimal. However, it should not be used for an extended period. It is recommended to replace it as soon as possible. Inspection: Check the air pressure of all tires, including the spare tire, at least once a month when they are cold. Do not exceed the safe driving standards and the legal speed limits. If encountering obstacles like rocks or potholes ahead, it is best to pass slowly or avoid them. Alignment: Regular wheel alignment and dynamic balancing are crucial for ensuring driving safety and achieving optimal mileage. Additionally, protect tires from exposure to sunlight, oil, acid, and hydrocarbons. Developing good driving habits is essential, such as avoiding emergency braking and sharp steering.
I accidentally scraped the curb while driving, and the sidewall of my tire got scratched. If it's just a minor rub, it might be fine, but a severe scrape can be serious. The sidewall of a tire is particularly thin, with reinforcing layers inside. If damaged, it can bulge or crack, significantly increasing the risk of a blowout at high speeds. It's recommended to pull over immediately and check: feel for any abnormal bulges with your hand and inspect the depth of the scratch. For safety, it's best to have it checked at a professional auto repair shop. Don't take the risk of driving, especially in the rain or on highways, as it can easily lead to loss of control and accidents. When parking, turn the steering wheel slowly and use the rearview mirror to help judge the distance.
If the sidewall of your tire gets scraped by a curb, you need to be careful. With over a decade of driving experience, I've seen many cases where such friction damages the internal structure, like breaking the cord layers, leading to bulges or slow leaks. Over time, it might suddenly blow out while driving, which is terrifying. Check it yourself: look for deep scratches or bubbles, and listen for any hissing sounds. If it's serious, replace the tire immediately—it starts at a few hundred bucks, but that's better than an accident. Prevention is simple: don't turn too sharply and leave some space between your wheels and the curb.
