Are small cracks in tires a serious issue?
3 Answers
It is not advisable to continue using them. Small cracks on vehicle tires indicate the presence of crazing. Since tires are made of rubber material, they will age over time, which can affect the normal use of the vehicle tires. In severe cases, it may lead to tire blowouts, compromising driving safety. Below is some relevant information about tires: Tire lifespan: The wear lifespan of tires is approximately 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers. If the tires have not reached the wear limit or mileage but have been in use for 5 years or developed numerous cracks on the sidewalls, they should be replaced. Tire material: The main component of tires is rubber. The maximum storage and anti-aging time for rubber, from natural latex to EPDM and nitrile, does not exceed 10 years. The average service life of various rubber products in use is 3-5 years.
When I see small cracks on the tires, I believe it's absolutely crucial to take them seriously, as they directly relate to driving safety—the top priority. These fine cracks may be warning signs of tire aging. Rubber becomes brittle and prone to cracking over time due to exposure to UV rays, high temperatures, or chemicals. During high-speed driving, load variations can cause these cracks to expand, potentially leading to a blowout—which is no joke. I once had a high-speed experience where I ignored small cracks on my tires, only to later notice increased vibrations. Upon inspection, the cracks had deepened, and I promptly replaced the tires to ensure peace of mind. Don’t just look at the surface—check the depth of the cracks. If they’re on the sidewalls or reveal internal fabric layers, the risk is even higher. Park in shaded areas when possible, avoid overloading and sudden braking, and you can extend tire life by a year or two. Safety comes first—don’t gamble with it. Schedule regular professional inspections to prevent problems before they arise—it’s the smart approach.
Regarding the issue of fine cracks on tires, I believe it depends on the specific location and severity - we shouldn't generalize. My car previously developed hairline cracks too. At first I thought nothing of it, just normal aging. But after driving on bumpy roads for a while, the cracks noticeably widened and I only realized the problem when the vehicle's stability deteriorated. Sidewall cracks are particularly concerning because that area is thinner, making blowouts or air leaks more likely. Tire condition directly affects daily handling - you'll experience reduced traction during rainy conditions. My suggestion is to visually inspect: if they're just superficial hairline cracks not too deep, you might get some more use out of them. But if there are multiple cracks or signs of bulging, replacement should be considered. For maintenance, monthly tire pressure checks can prevent such issues, as proper inflation avoids excessive deformation that accelerates aging. Driving habits matter too - avoiding curbs and potholes extends tire life. Don't repeat my past carelessness, true savings come from prioritizing safety.
