Which tire conditions require you to stop the trip or not drive?

• A. Severe cuts, bulges, tread wear below minimum, or visible fabric showing.
• B. Slight scuff on the sidewall.
• C. Normal tread wear.
• D. Newly replaced tires with no wear.

Answer: (A)

Damaged tires that show serious compromises must stop and not be driven because they pose an immediate blowout or loss of control risk. Severe cuts can extend deeper than the surface, bulges mean the tire has a weak spot growing under pressure, tread wear that’s below the minimum leaves little grip and heat resistance, and exposed fabric (cords) shows the tire’s structural layers are exposed and could fail suddenly. All of these indicate a tire that is unsafe to continue using until it’s repaired or replaced.

By contrast, a slight scuff on the sidewall is usually minor and may not require stopping the trip, normal tread wear is expected as tires wear with use, and newly replaced tires with no wear are in good condition for driving. If in doubt about a tire’s condition, it’s best to inspect or replace it before continuing.