What to do if a small piece of the tire sidewall is chipped and the steel wire is exposed?
2 Answers
In this case, it is recommended to replace the damaged tire. Punctures on the tire sidewall or tread damage cannot be repaired. If the carcass ply is not damaged, the damaged tire should not be placed on the drive wheels and can only be used for short-distance urban driving. If the carcass ply is damaged, the tire must be replaced immediately due to the risk of a blowout at any time. Here is an introduction to tires: 1. Radial structure tires: The structure consists of the tread to enhance tire-ground adhesion, with tread patterns to displace water on the road surface; the cushion layer absorbs impacts from different road conditions; the steel belt ensures driving stability and reduces rolling resistance; the carcass ply maintains shape and resists internal pressure; the inner liner seals the internal air; the sidewall protects the carcass ply from damage; and the bead positions the tire on the rim center and seals the internal space. 2. Tire structure and function: If a piece of the tire sidewall is chipped, at minimum the cushion layer and steel belt will be damaged, and in severe cases, the carcass ply and inner liner may also be compromised.
I remember one time my friend's tire had a small chunk missing from the sidewall, exposing the steel wires. I urgently warned him how extremely dangerous this was. The tire sidewall is the weakest part, and exposed steel wires indicate internal structural damage. It could blow out at any moment during high-speed driving, potentially causing a rollover accident. It's absolutely unsafe to continue driving - you must stop immediately to assess the damage. If the steel wires are clearly visible, no repair is possible and the entire tire must be replaced. I recommend going to a professional tire shop where they can evaluate whether replacement is needed and check the condition of other tires. When driving normally, avoid curbs and gravel roads to prevent similar damage. Conduct regular tire inspections - every 5,000 kilometers or with seasonal changes - checking sidewalls for cracks or bulges. These small habits can ensure safety.
