What to Do if There's a Small Cut on the Sidewall of a Tire?
1 Answers
If the sidewall of a tire is scratched, it must be replaced as soon as possible to avoid the risk of a high-speed blowout. If the damage on the contact surface exceeds 4mm, the tire should also be replaced immediately, as both internal and external repairs pose potential dangers. It is not recommended to use the vehicle before the tire is inspected and repaired (especially if the front tire is damaged). It is advisable to remove the tire to check for internal punctures. Considering safety, if this area is punctured, it is not recommended to repair it—replacement is necessary. The following five habits can extend tire life: 1. Develop the habit of checking tire pressure regularly. Air pressure is key to extending tire life—if tire pressure frequently exceeds the normal level by 20%, tire life will decrease by 10%; if it is frequently 30% below normal, tire life will be reduced by 52%. 2. Maintain consistent air pressure. Tire pressure is the life of a tire. If pressure is too low, the tire body deforms more, leading to cracks on the sidewalls and excessive heat generation, which accelerates rubber aging, fatigue of the cord layer, and cord breakage. 3. Regularly remove foreign objects from the tire. While driving, small stones often get lodged in the tread grooves. If not removed promptly, these stones can puncture the tire over time, causing leaks or blowouts. 4. Adopt scientifically sound driving habits. When driving on roads with significant curvature, try to stay centered to avoid and reduce vehicle weight shifts, which can increase uneven tire wear due to uneven load distribution. 5. Maintain accurate wheel alignment. Front-wheel alignment greatly impacts tire lifespan, with toe-in and camber being the primary factors. Excessive camber accelerates shoulder wear (uneven wear), while incorrect toe-in mainly accelerates wear on the inner and outer edges of the tire.
