Tire Sidewall Inspection: What’s Safe—and What’s Not
Your tires take on heat, weight, and impact, but their weak spot is the sidewall. Knowing what to look for helps you decide when it’s safe to drive and when it’s time for a professional inspection or replacement.
Good news: you can stop by any America’s Tire (known as Discount Tire in many states) for a free tire inspection and free flat repair—no matter where you bought your tires. Walk in or find a store near you to schedule a quick check.
How to check your sidewalls at home
Park on a level surface, set the parking brake, and turn the wheel outward to see more of the sidewall.
Inspect the outer and inner sidewalls of each tire. Run your hand carefully along the surface.
Look for scrapes, cuts, gouges, bulges/bubbles, protrusions, cracking, or exposed cords.
Don’t forget tire pressure. A sudden or recurring low-pressure reading is a red flag.
If you’re unsure about anything you see, it’s best to have us take a look. Make an appointment or drop by—inspections are always free.
What different sidewall conditions mean
Bulges or bubbles
What it is: A raised “bubble” on the sidewall caused by a tear in the tire’s internal structure.
Causes: Manufacturer defect on a new tire (rare) or, more commonly after use, an impact (pothole, curb, debris). Low-profile tires are more susceptible.
Safety: Not repairable. Driving risk is high.
Action: Remove from service immediately. If you install your spare, deflate the damaged tire before stowing it. Make an appointment and consider shopping tires.
Indentations (cosmetic)
What it is: Shallow “dents” caused by overlapping body plies—often mirrored on the opposite side of the tire.
Safety: Normal and not a concern when they’re uniform and shallow.
Action: No repair needed. If in doubt, we’ll confirm with a free inspection.
Scrapes, cuts, and gouges
What it is: Surface damage from curbs, trail obstacles, or debris.
Safety: Varies. If cords are visible, the cut is deep, or damage spreads, the tire should be replaced.
Action: Have it inspected right away. If minor and safe, continue driving but monitor closely.
Protruding objects
What it is: Nails, screws, or debris lodged in rubber.
Safety: If in the sidewall, the tire cannot be repaired and must be replaced. If in the tread area and repairable, we’ll fix it.
Action: Bring it in. We offer free flat repairs for safe, repairable tread punctures.
When to stop driving immediately
Any sidewall bulge or bubble
Visible cords or a cut deep enough to expose internal layers
Rapid air loss or repeated low-pressure warnings
A loud impact followed by vibration, pull, or thumping
Install your spare if you can do so safely, then make an appointment.
Free inspections and flat repairs
Free tire inspections: pressure check, tread depth, sidewall and tread exam, valve stems, and torque check
Free flat repairs: for safe, repairable tread punctures—even if you didn’t buy your tires from us
Available at every America’s Tire and Discount Tire location
Walk-ins welcome, or you can find a store and schedule online
Yes, you can get a free tire inspection at Discount Tire and at America’s Tire. If you’re asking “Where can I get my tires checked for free?”—visit any of our locations nationwide.
Need replacement tires?
If inspection shows your tire isn’t safe to use, we’ll help you choose the right replacement at the right price. You can save time by shopping tires and booking service online. Check current offers on our promotions page.