Under what circumstances must tires be replaced?
2 Answers
Tires must be replaced under the following circumstances: 1. When the tread pattern depth is below 1.6mm, and the wear indicator is flush with the tread, the tires must be replaced. Continuing to drive may lead to skidding, which can cause the vehicle to lose control; 2. When the tire has large punctures or has been repaired too many times, it must be replaced; 3. When the sidewall of the tire is severely scratched. The sidewall is the weakest part of the tire but also supports it. If the sidewall is severely scratched or damaged, it can significantly affect the entire tire, potentially causing unstable tire pressure during driving, leading to a sidewall blowout; 4. Bulges occur when the internal cord layers are damaged, causing the tire's internal air pressure to become uncontrollable. This results in uneven force distribution on the outer tire, with the areas under higher pressure protruding to form a bulge. Bulges cannot be repaired, and a bulging tire may explode at any time, so it must be replaced promptly.
I've been driving for over a decade and have changed tires many times, summarizing some practical experience. When you notice the tire tread depth is below 1.6mm, you must replace them immediately, otherwise braking in rainy conditions can easily cause skidding and accidents. Don't ignore small cracks or bulges on the sidewall either—they're signs of broken cords and pose a high risk of blowouts at high speeds. Additionally, tires typically shouldn't be used for more than 6 years, as the rubber hardens and cracks with age. I remember once on a long trip, I ignored a small bulge on my tire, and it blew out on the highway—costing me a fortune in repairs and giving me quite a scare. Regularly measuring tread depth with a coin and checking tire pressure can prevent these issues. Safety always comes first; don't skimp on cheap tires—choose reputable shops for peace of mind.
