What are buffed tires?
3 Answers
Buffed tires refer to tires that have had the white barcode on the bead area removed, and it is not recommended for car owners to use them for an extended period. Below is more information about buffed tires: 1. Buffed tires are also known as cut-mark tires, which are non-warranty products. They could be defective products identified during factory inspection, or they might be qualified products, or even smuggled tires originally intended for export that are now sold domestically, as well as cross-regional parallel imported tires, all sold at low prices with their markings buffed off. 2. Buffed tires can be used, but car owners should choose them based on their specific needs. If you frequently drive on highways, it is advised not to use these tires. Although they may not burst, the dynamic balance of such tires is poor, which could lead to vehicle vibration and affect driving safety.
Tread wear indicators are actually the small raised bars located in the grooves of a tire, approximately 1.6mm in height. After prolonged use, when the tread wears down to this level, these bars become visible, signaling it's time to replace the tire. Having driven for nearly a decade, I've encountered this situation frequently. Honestly, ignoring it is quite risky—reduced tire grip can lead to skidding in rain or on curves, and braking distances can easily double. During routine maintenance, I check by either feeling with my fingers or using a coin test: insert it into the tread, and if the wear bar is clearly visible, replace the tire immediately. I recommend checking every 5,000 kilometers—don’t wait for a blowout. Safety always comes first; spending a little now can prevent major issues later!
Tire wear indicators, also known as tread wear indicators, are safety warnings when the tire tread wears down to the marked level. As someone who frequently goes on road trips, I fully understand their importance. When buying used tires, be extra careful to avoid pitfalls—some cheap tires may look deeply treaded, but a quick check of the wear indicators reveals the truth. The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm. Below this threshold, tire grip plummets, steering becomes unstable, and the risk of rollover increases. Before every tire change, I measure tread depth using professional tools or mobile apps. Proper maintenance not only saves fuel but also prevents roadside emergencies. Especially before long-distance trips, checking the wear indicators gives me peace of mind.
