Truth About Sidewall Tire Damage and When to Replace Them – Don’t Get Ripped Off!

Introduction 

When it comes to maintaining a vehicle, one of the most important components to keep in check is the tires. Tires provide the vehicle with traction, stability, and support. However, tires can become damaged over time due to various reasons, such as uneven wear, punctures, and impact damage. One of the most common types of tire damage is sidewall damage. This damage can be caused by hitting a curb, driving over a pothole, or even by improper inflation. 

In this article, we will discuss how much sidewall tire damage is too much. We will also highlight what actions you can take to address this type of damage.

Explanation of Sidewall Damage

Sidewall damage refers to any harm that happens to the outer wall of a tire. This is the area that sits in the middle of the tread and rim of the wheel. The sidewall is responsible for reinforcing the mass of the automobile and protecting the inner tire from damage. 

Various factors can cause sidewall damage, such as punctures, cuts, bulges, impact damage, weathering, abrasion, and chemical exposure. This kind of damage can weaken the sidewall and increase the risk of a blowout, which can compromise the vehicle’s safety. It is important to regularly check the tires for any signs of sidewall damage and to replace them if necessary.

Types of Sidewall Damage 

Several types of sidewall damage can occur on a tire. These include

Punctures

These are small holes in the sidewall caused by nails, screws, or other sharp objects. Punctures can be repaired if they are smaller than a quarter inch in diameter and located in the tread area. However, if the puncture is in the sidewall or larger than a quarter inch, the tire should be replaced. 

Cuts

These are long, narrow slits in the sidewall caused by sharp objects or road debris. Cuts can weaken the sidewall and make the tire susceptible to a blowout. If a cut is longer than a quarter inch, you should replace your tire.

Bulges

These are raised areas on the sidewall caused by internal damage. Bulges can indicate that the tire is no longer structurally sound, and a new tire should be installed.

Impact Damage

This type of damage is caused by hitting a pothole or curb. It can cause a bulge or a tear in the sidewall, which might lead to a blowout. In case the sidewall appears visually damaged, you must replace it immediately.

Weathering

Weathering is the process of the tire sidewall being exposed to the elements, such as sunlight, heat, and cold. It can cause cracking or dry rot and should be catered to as soon as possible.

Abrasion 

Abrasion is when the sidewall of the tire is worn down due to friction. This can be caused by driving in rough terrain or over debris on the road. If you live in mountainous regions, checking for abrasions regularly is a must.

Chemical Damage

Chemical damage can occur when the tire comes in contact with certain chemicals, such as gasoline, oil, or acidic substances. Chemical damage is not hard to detect, so getting your tires checked once in a while is better. 

Causes of Sidewall Tire Damage 

Sidewall tire damage is not uncommon. However, you must understand its causes. These include

Road Hazards

One of the most common causes of sidewall tire damage is hitting road hazards such as potholes or curbs. These obstacles can cause impact damage to the sidewall of the tire. Consequently, it weakens the tire’s structural integrity while increasing the risk of a blowout.

Sharp Objects

Another common cause of sidewall damage is running over sharp objects such as nails or screws. Subsequently, it can puncture or cut the sidewall. 

Overloading 

Overloading the vehicle can also cause excessive stress on the sidewall and lead to damage. 

Age Of the Tire

The age of a tire is also a cause of sidewall tire damage. Over time, the rubber on the sidewall can become brittle and crack.

Signs and Symptoms of Sidewall Tire Damage

It is essential to understand the signs and symptoms of sidewall tire damage. Some common signs include

Uneven Wear on The Sidewalls

If the sidewalls of your tires appear to be wearing more quickly or unevenly than the rest of the tire, this could be a sign of sidewall damage. 

Leaks Or Slow Air Loss

Tires that are losing air more quickly or frequently than usual could be a sign of sidewall damage, such as a puncture or cut. 

Vibrations Or Shaking

If you experience vibrations or shaking while driving, this could be a sign of sidewall damage. This could also indicate that the tire is out of balance or the wheel is out of alignment. 

Noise

Hearing a loud, low-frequency noise coming from your tires could be a sign of sidewall damage, such as a bubble or blister. It’s important to address these signs and symptoms immediately to prevent further damage and ensure your vehicle’s safety. 

If you notice any of these signs, it’s recommended that you have your tires inspected by a professional. They can determine the cause of the issue and endorse the appropriate course of action.

Assessing the Extent of Sidewall Damage

Determining the severity of sidewall damage is crucial to assess the safety and longevity of a tire. A small cut or puncture on the sidewall may be repairable. But, a large cut, puncture, bulge, or scraped sidewall may indicate that the tire needs to be replaced. To evaluate the extent of sidewall damage, it is essential to conduct a thorough inspection of the tire. 

This can include visually inspecting the tire from different angles and checking for any cuts, punctures, bulges, or scrapes on the sidewall. You should also pay attention to the location of the damage. If the damage is located close to the sidewall, it can be more severe and may require replacement. 

You should also note that any damage that is found on the sidewall of a tire should be considered severe. Regardless of the size or location of the damage, it is best to replace the tire. Failure to do so can compromise the tire’s structural integrity and increase the risk of a tire failure.

When to Replace a Tire 

The lifespan of a tire is determined by several factors. These entail the type of tire, the driving conditions, and the maintenance of the tire. However, even with proper care and maintenance, tires will eventually need to be replaced. 

Sidewall Damage

One of the most common reasons for tire replacement is sidewall damage. Sidewall damage, including cuts, punctures, bulges, or scrapes, is not repairable, and the tire should be replaced immediately. It is unsafe to drive on a tire with sidewall damage, as it often results in tire failure. 

Life Expectancy of The Tire

Tires have a lifespan of around 5-10 years, depending on the type of tire and the usage. Therefore, it is necessary to check the manufacture date of the tire. You can find it on the tire’s sidewall and replace it if it is older than the recommended lifespan. 

Wear and Tear 

Tires worn down to the tread wear indicator are no longer safe to drive on and must be replaced. If the tread depth is less than 2/32 of an inch, it is time to replace the tire. 

Shaking Vehicle

If a vehicle shakes while driving at high speeds, it could be caused by uneven tire wear and calls for a replacement. 

Blistering or Bubbling

Blistering or bubbling on the sidewall of a tire is a sign of internal damage, and the tire should be discarded and replaced.

Potential Consequences of Driving on Damaged Tires

The consequences of driving on damaged tires are numerous, some of which are: 

Reduced Handling and Stability

Damaged tires cannot maintain proper contact with the road, leading to poor handling and stability. This can make it difficult to steer or control the vehicle, especially at high speeds or in emergencies. This significantly increases the risk of accidents and collisions. 

Increased Risk of a Blowout

Tires with excessive sidewall damage are more likely to suffer a blowout, thus leading to a loss of control and a potential accident. A blowout can occur when the sidewall of the tire ruptures or the tread separates from the rest of the tire. A blowout causes sudden and unexpected air pressure loss, making it difficult to control the vehicle. 

Reduced Fuel Efficiency

Damaged tires can cause more resistance while driving and often result in decreased fuel efficiency. This can be costly in terms of fuel expenses and lead to increased emissions. 

Reduced Tire Life

Worn tires will not last as long as undamaged tires. This means that you will have to replace them more frequently, which can be costly. 

Reduced Vehicle Performance

Tires that are damaged can affect the overall performance of your vehicle. This can include reduced fuel efficiency, decreased handling and stability, and increased brake wear. 

Voided Warranty

If you are driving on tires with excessive sidewall damage, it can void the tire’s warranty. This means that any damages or issues that occur as a result of the sidewall damage will not be covered by the manufacturer. 

Legal Consequences

Driving on damaged tires can also result in fines and penalties, depending on the laws in your area. In some cases, it may be considered a violation of vehicle safety regulations. This means you could face penalties such as fines, points on your driver’s license, or even criminal charges.

Steps to Avoid Sidewall Tire Damage 

To avoid sidewall tire damage, it is essential to take the following steps: 

Regular Inspection

The first step in avoiding sidewall tire damage is regularly inspecting your tires. Look out for cuts, punctures, or bulges, which can weaken the sidewall and make the tire more susceptible to a blowout. It’s recommended to check your tires at least once a month. 

Proper Inflation

Properly inflated tires are essential to avoiding sidewall tire damage. Under-inflated tires can cause excessive stress on the sidewall and lead to damage. Make sure to check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level. 

Avoid Overloading

Carrying excessive weight or overloading the vehicle can cause extra stress on the sidewall and result in damage. Ensure that you distribute the weight of your vehicle evenly and don’t exceed the manufacturer’s recommended weight limit.

Dodge Potholes and Curbs

One of the best ways to avoid sidewall tire damage is to avoid hitting potholes and curbs. Slow down and be mindful of road hazards, and if you can’t avoid them, try to hit them at a slow speed. 

Circumvent Driving Over Sharp Objects

Running over nails, screws, or other sharp objects can cause punctures or cuts in the sidewall. Be mindful of debris on the road and try to avoid it as much as possible. 

Evade Exposure to Harsh Elements

Exposure to the elements, such as sunlight, heat, and cold, can cause cracking or dry rot on the sidewall. Park your vehicle in a covered, shaded area to avoid exposure to the sun. Correspondingly, use a tire cover to protect your tires from the elements. 

Avoid Exposure to Chemicals

Coming in contact with certain chemicals, such as gasoline, oil, or acidic substances, can cause chemical damage to the sidewall. Be mindful of your tires when filling up your vehicle or working on your car. Make sure to clean the tires if they come in contact with any chemicals. 

Replace Worn Out Tires

Tires, like any other component of a vehicle, have a lifespan. Over time, the rubber on the sidewall can falter, even if it’s not used frequently. Thus, you must replace worn-out tires to ensure the safety and longevity of your vehicle. 

You should replace your tires when they have reached the manufacturer’s recommended tread depth. Or if they show any signs of damage, such as cuts, punctures, or bulges.

Conclusion

Overall, sidewall tire damage is a serious issue that can have serious consequences. It’s essential to take any damage seriously and address it promptly. By understanding the different types of sidewall damage, the potential consequences of driving on damaged tires, and avoiding sidewall tire damage, we can ensure the safety and performance of our vehicles. Regular tire maintenance, proper tire inflation, and investing in the right type of tires can also help reduce the risk of sidewall damage.