I just noticed I have a tear, for lack of better terms in my sidewall. The thickness / depth, of the rubber that has separated is 1/8th" inch. The tear is a good 3" long and is is close to where the tire meets the rim. I haven't, but could cut the separated rubber or rubber cement it back if that would even do anything to help.

Bottom line is, I'm not going to risk my safety and the safety of others for a few hundred bucks. At the same time I don't want to flush money down the toilet if the damage is just cosmetic. The tires are my rears on the stock 18" wheels on a 2003 touring. They are Continental ExtremeContact DWS if it matters.

Anyways, attached are some pictures. Any opinions are welcome

 

I would err on the side of caution with this one, and replace.

I have tracked my Z (for short runs) on bald tires, worn down to where you could see the ripples of the metal cord, just below the last little bit of rubber.


But I wouldn't roll the dice on side walls.

 

I'd say change the tire. I"m not a structural engineer or work for goodyear or anything but it's better than being sorry.
How did it happen? Spontaneous or impact?

 

IMO, replace.

How old are the tires?
What's the thread depth?

 

Replace... if you hit a pothole that area will more than likely fail.

 

Don't worry about it. Just keep the speed below 100 MPH.

 

I work at discount tire and I personally think its okay as long as steel isn't showing. Just don't be a speedracer or drift king and the tire should hold up til next change no problem. ( I seen much worse )

 

curb surfing is cool, but..... it can get pricey $$$$

 

Water gets inside. Steel belts start to rust. Strength compromised. You get the picture.

 

any sort of damage on a tire is ideal for replacement.

 

If there are two things one should never skimp on or roll the dice with, it's brakes and tires. Replace it, and you can drive to your hearts content.

 

cosmetic, its just fine.

 

You don't want to mess with sidewalls. Also, there is no steel belt in the sidewall. How much tread is left? How old are the tires? My vote is replace, but do some nasty burnouts first, and take pics/video.

 

Replace it.

 

Definitely replace.