How is a defective tire defined?

A defective tire is defined primarily by its condition regarding tread damage and safety. In this context, having any tread damage longer than 2.5 cm that exposes the ply cords indicates that the tire is compromised and potentially unsafe for operation. The exposure of the ply cords can lead to structural failure while driving, significantly increasing the risk of a blowout or loss of control of the vehicle.

Tread depth and overall tire shine might indicate different issues, but they do not directly define a tire as defective in the same way that damage exposing internal material does. While having less than 5 mm of tread or shiny tires could signal wear or aesthetic concerns, they do not necessarily indicate an immediate safety hazard as severe as exposed ply cords could. Additionally, even tread wear, while it suggests the tire may have been used correctly, does not consider other forms of damage that could still render a tire defective. Therefore, the most critical aspect of tire safety is ensuring that there are no damages that compromise the tire's integrity and the vehicle's safety on the road.