Should the Small Stones in the Tire Be Removed?
3 Answers
Small stones stuck in the grooves of car tires need to be cleaned out. The hazards of having small stones in tire grooves include: Noise generation: Generally, you can detect whether there are stones in the tires by listening carefully while driving. The faster the speed, the higher the frequency of noise, indicating that stones are stuck in the tire grooves. When stones are lodged in the tires, you can clearly hear the sound of stones rubbing against the ground while driving, which can significantly affect the driver's judgment of road conditions in severe cases. Impact on tire performance: The grooves on tires are designed for water drainage. When filled with small stones, the drainage effect is weakened. Driving on wet or slippery roads in rainy conditions can reduce the tire's grip or braking performance, making the car more prone to skidding. On highways, this can even lead to brake failure.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I've developed the habit of picking out small stones from my tires after every refueling. These tiny stones may seem insignificant, but when embedded in the tread for too long, they can accelerate wear during driving, cause minor air leaks, or increase the risk of blowouts. Especially during rainy seasons when roads are slippery, accumulated stones can impair tire drainage, reducing grip and compromising safety. I've also noticed that removing stones reduces tire noise and makes driving smoother. Of course, there's no need to overreact—only sharp, large stones require immediate attention, as small particles may dislodge on their own. I recommend checking your tires every two weeks and verifying proper tire pressure while you're at it. This practice extends tire life and ensures safer driving. Developing good habits helps your beloved car accompany you on longer journeys.
On my daily commute, I always pay attention to the condition of my tires. If I notice small stones stuck in the tread, I usually pick them out as a precaution. These stones can accelerate tire wear, cause occasional strange noises and instability at high speeds, and if embedded deeply, may even lead to slow leaks. However, there's no need to be overly concerned—most small stones won't actually damage the tires. Whether to remove them depends on the size and location of the stone—only protruding or sharp ones are worth the effort to pick out. If you're not inclined to do it yourself, you can always ask the car wash attendant to clean them during your next visit. More importantly, regularly checking tire pressure is far more effective than removing stones—it directly impacts both driving safety and fuel efficiency. A few simple steps can prevent major issues, making it well worth the time investment.
