What to Do If the Edge of the Tire Is Slightly Scratched Off?
3 Answers
If the tread is slightly scratched off and not very deep, it can continue to be used normally. However, if the steel wire is exposed, it needs to be repaired or replaced with a new tire. Below is relevant information about tires: 1. Wear: Tires have wear indicators. There are triangle marks on the side of the tire. When the wear reaches the point indicated by the triangle mark, it is recommended to replace the tire. There are also raised marks inside the tire's drainage grooves. When the wear reaches the level of these raised marks on the tire surface, the tire should be replaced. Simple punctures can be repaired without needing replacement. Bulges must be replaced. 2. Aging: Rubber oxidizes in the air, and oxidized rubber hardens, reducing grip. Therefore, even if a set of tires is left unused, its lifespan will decrease. It is not recommended to use tires for more than 5 years from the production date. The production date is marked on the side of the tire.
Recently, I noticed a small chunk missing from the edge of my tire while driving. As a veteran driver with over a decade of experience, I know this isn't something to take lightly. I immediately found a safe spot to pull over and carefully inspected the damage with a flashlight. The edge of a tire is particularly vulnerable—if the damage is shallow and hasn't exposed the inner cords, you might be able to drive slowly to a repair shop for assessment. However, if the cords are visible, you must replace the tire immediately, as the risk of deformation or a blowout at high speeds is dangerously high. In my case, even though it was just a minor incident while parking in the city, I opted to replace the tire as a precaution. I recommend regularly checking tire wear, maintaining proper tire pressure, and avoiding curbs—these small habits can significantly improve driving safety. Generally, tires last about 4-6 years or 80,000 kilometers. Don't gamble with safety to save a few bucks—safety should always come first!
I'm an avid road-tripper who often drives on mountain highways on weekends. Last time, the edge of my tire got slightly scuffed. If this happens, don't panic and keep driving—first, pull over and check by hand for any air leaks or cracks. If it's just a surface scratch without exposed cords, I usually apply some tire sealant as a temporary fix to prevent air loss, but only for short distances to the nearest repair shop. The mechanic will use professional tools to determine if a patch or replacement is needed. Damage to the tire edge affects balance, and prolonged driving may cause loud noise or unstable handling, especially on bumpy roads, which can be dangerous. By the way, when replacing tires, it's best to go to a chain store for fairer pricing. I've developed a habit of checking tire pressure monthly and visually inspecting tire conditions before every trip. Addressing minor damage promptly ensures peace of mind while driving.
