Should a scratched car tire be repaired or replaced?

[DeJosiah]

If a car tire is scratched, it is recommended to replace it promptly if the scratch is on the sidewall. The sidewall is relatively weak, and sidewall scratches are generally irreparable. Continuing to use such a tire poses a risk of blowout and safety hazards. Regular tire inspections are essential, especially before highway driving. In addition to checking tire pressure, inspect the sidewalls for cracks and monitor tread wear. Any potential hazards should be addressed immediately. From a usage perspective, the sidewall of a tire displays a four-digit code indicating the manufacturing date—the first two digits represent the week, and the last two digits represent the year. Typically, tires should not be used for more than 3 years or exceed 60,000 kilometers in mileage.

[DonovanRose]

Speaking of car tire scratches, I have personal experience—last year my car accidentally scraped against the curb, leaving a gash on the sidewall. I was panicked at the time, especially since I commute 50 kilometers daily. If an accident happened because of this small issue, it would be a big problem. I immediately drove to the repair shop, and only after the mechanic took it off for inspection did I feel relieved. He said: tire scratches depend on the location and depth. If it's just a shallow scratch on the tread surface, it's no big deal; but if the sidewall is damaged or it's deep enough to expose the fiber layer, it must be replaced immediately, otherwise, pressure changes during high-speed driving could cause a blowout. Especially now during the rainy season, wet roads make it even more dangerous. It's hard for ordinary people to judge on their own, so I suggest not skimping on the hassle—spend a few dozen bucks for a professional inspection to ensure safety first. In daily parking, avoid sharp objects, and regular maintenance can also prevent issues beforehand.

[McCorbin]

I usually drive around the city, and my car is brand new. A while ago, I accidentally scratched the tire on a roadside railing. At first, I thought about ignoring it to save trouble, but after checking online, I realized there were risks. The mechanic at the repair shop told me that shallow scratches on the tread are not a big issue and the tire can still be used. However, if the scratch is on the sidewall and deeper than 2 millimeters, the tire needs to be replaced. He also warned against using glue or other makeshift fixes to save money, as it could damage the tire's structure. Later, I decided to get it inspected. Spending a small amount to confirm it was safe gave me peace of mind. Most young people have limited budgets, but safety should never be compromised. Getting a professional evaluation in time is the smartest move. Make it a habit to check your tire condition regularly—early detection and early action are key.

[StKayden]

After years of driving, I've encountered various tire issues, with scratches being the most common yet not to be taken lightly. The key is assessing the scratch depth – superficial marks on the tread are harmless, but if it's deep enough to expose steel belts or damages the sidewall, immediate replacement is mandatory. My neighbor once ignored a small tire scratch to save money, which resulted in a high-speed blowout causing an accident – profound regret followed. I recommend visiting professional shops directly where technicians can conduct precise inspections with proper tools. Always park carefully to avoid obstacles during daily use, as proper maintenance extends tire lifespan. Safety remains the fundamental principle of driving.

[Hannah]

I'm quite frugal in my daily life, so a scratched car tire really bothers me. Minor scratches might not affect usage, but deep damage, especially on the sidewall, means replacement is necessary. Tire replacement is costly—I've checked the market: standard tires cost a few hundred each. A simple method to assess: if the scratch is no deeper than 1.6mm and not on the side, it can be repaired; otherwise, seek professional evaluation. Compare prices at multiple shops—some offer free inspection services. Regular maintenance saves big expenses; investing in safety is worthwhile.