What condition disqualifies tires from passing inspection based on sidewall damage?

The presence of any visible tears or bulges in the tire’s sidewall is a critical factor that disqualifies a tire from passing inspection. Sidewall damage, such as tears or bulges, indicates that the structural integrity of the tire has been compromised. This can lead to serious safety issues while driving, including the increased risk of a blowout, which can cause loss of control of the vehicle. Inspections prioritize safety, and tires with significant sidewall damage render the tire unsafe for use.

In contrast, minor scuffs or scratches typically do not affect the tire's performance and do not pose an immediate safety risk. A change in tire color might result from cosmetic issues or environmental exposure but does not reflect a fundamental problem with the tire's structural integrity. Uneven tire wear can indicate alignment or suspension issues, but it may not be as urgent as a bulge or tear in the sidewall, which poses a direct danger to the vehicle's operation. Thus, visible tears or bulges are unequivocally a disqualifying condition for passing tire inspection.