Should I Replace the Tire If There's a Small Nick on the Sidewall?

[DiCollin]

Yes, you should replace the tire if there's a small nick on the sidewall. The sidewall is the weakest part of a tire, and once a piece of rubber is chipped off, it may have damaged the sidewall's cord layers, posing risks of air leakage or a blowout. Below are solutions for various tire-related issues: If the tire is worn: Tires have tread wear indicators, which are slightly raised marks located at the bottom of the tread grooves, with a height of 1.6 mm (the legal minimum groove depth). If the tread rubber wears down to the same level as these raised indicators, the tire should be replaced immediately, as continued driving is no longer safe. If the tire is damaged: Hitting a curb, falling into a pothole, or having a nail puncture can severely damage the tire. Generally, sidewall damage cannot be repaired, and for safety reasons, the tire must be replaced. If the tire is aged: If you notice tread deformation or significant cracking, stop using the tire immediately and have it inspected by a professional repair shop to determine if it can still be used. If the tire has a bulge: A tire bulge is a major factor leading to blowouts, especially on highways. If a bulge is detected, the tire should be replaced promptly.