Exposed cord or separation means protective rubber or bonding between tire components has been compromised.
Exposed cord or separation means protective rubber or bonding between tire components has been compromised.
Visible textile or steel, a raised tread area, waviness, a local bulge or a sudden runout change are more than ordinary wear findings.
Alignment correction cannot make a tire with exposed reinforcement structurally serviceable. External covering or adhesive does not restore the original construction.
Remove the tire from normal service, preserve evidence for fleet or warranty review and correct the vehicle cause before installing a replacement.
What the finding means
Visible textile or steel, a raised tread area, waviness, a local bulge or a sudden runout change are more than ordinary wear findings.
Alignment correction cannot make a tire with exposed reinforcement structurally serviceable. External covering or adhesive does not restore the original construction.
Possible contributors
A visible pattern or measured condition is evidence, not proof of one component failure. Compare all tire positions and combine the tire findings with pressure, alignment, wheel-end and service-history data.
| Condition to consider | Role | Verification |
|---|---|---|
| Severe wear to reinforcement | Possible contributor | Verify with measurements and vehicle history |
| Impact or penetration | Possible contributor | Verify with measurements and vehicle history |
| Underinflation, overload or heat | Possible contributor | Verify with measurements and vehicle history |
| Improper repair | Possible contributor | Verify with measurements and vehicle history |
| Internal bonding or structural damage | Possible contributor | Verify with measurements and vehicle history |
Workshop inspection procedure
- Stop high-speed testing
- Mark and photograph the area
- Record tire identification and position
- Inspect wheel and vehicle for the initiating cause
- Remove and assess using safe manufacturer procedure
Pressure, tire position, measurements, photographs and vehicle condition should be recorded before correction. That evidence makes the recommendation understandable and supports future comparison.
Service decision and follow-up
Remove the tire from normal service, preserve evidence for fleet or warranty review and correct the vehicle cause before installing a replacement.
Inspect the opposite tire and the other axle before finalizing the recommendation. When corrective work is performed, set a verification point so the workshop can confirm that new wear is no longer progressing abnormally.
Tread depth does not override a bulge, exposed reinforcement, suspected separation, severe run-flat history or damage outside an approved repair procedure.
Frequently asked questions
Can a tire with exposed cord remain in service?
No. Exposed reinforcement or suspected separation requires removal from service and evaluation under the tire manufacturer procedure.
Can separation always be confirmed visually?
No. Vibration, distortion or localized growth may require the tire to be removed and inspected internally.
Is a plug or patch suitable for separation damage?
No. Normal puncture repair procedures do not correct structural separation.
What nearby components should be checked?
Inspect the wheel and surrounding body or suspension areas for contact or impact that may have contributed to the damage.
Technical review edition · Published 17 July 2026.