Symptom: Indentation
Diagnostic: This is not a problem. It is the normal radial sidewall.
Indentations are quite natural on radial tires (most tires) and will not affect performance.
Your tires feature one or more layers of fabric cord within its sidewall construction that run parallel to each other. (Steel cords are used within the tread.) Where the cords overlap, there is often slight indentation.
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FAQ
Read our Frequently Asked Questions.
Sidewall damage includes cuts, cracks, bulges, bubbles, and abrasions on the outer or inner sidewall of the tire. It is always serious because the sidewall is a structural component that supports the vehicle's weight and absorbs road impacts. Unlike tread punctures (which can sometimes be repaired), sidewall damage almost always requires tire replacement. The sidewall cannot be safely patched in most cases because the flex forces in normal driving would re-open or expand any repair.
No. A sidewall bulge means internal cord damage has occurred—typically from a hard impact with a pothole or curb. The outer rubber is the only thing containing the air pressure at that point, and it can rupture at any time, causing a sudden and violent blowout. Do not drive on a tire with a sidewall bulge. Install your spare immediately and have the tire replaced at a shop. There is no safe temporary fix for a sidewall bulge.
Sidewall cracking (also called ozone cracking or weathering) occurs as rubber ages and is exposed to UV light, ozone, and temperature extremes. Fine surface cracks are common on tires over 5–6 years old and may be cosmetic initially. However, when cracks are deep (you can see into them), numerous, or located at the bead area (where the tire meets the rim), they indicate structural degradation. Have any cracked tires inspected by a professional—if the cracking has reached the cords, the tire must be replaced.
No. Industry standards and Michelin policy are clear: sidewall punctures cannot be safely repaired. The sidewall flexes thousands of times per kilometre during normal driving, and any repair in this zone would be subject to stresses that no patch can reliably withstand. A sidewall puncture—whether from a nail, sharp object, or curb impact—means the tire must be replaced. Do not accept a sidewall repair from any shop; it is not a recognized safe practice.
Pull over safely as soon as possible and inspect the sidewall for visible bulging, cuts, or deformation.
Check tire pressure—a significant impact can cause sudden pressure loss.
If any abnormality is visible or pressure is low, do not continue driving—install the spare.
Even if nothing is visible, have the tire professionally inspected internally within 24–48 hours. Internal cord damage is invisible from outside.
Also have the wheel, suspension, and alignment inspected—significant impacts often damage more than just the tire.
