At What Level of Tire Cracking Should Replacement Be Done?
3 Answers
If the tread of a car tire is severely worn, it is necessary to replace the tire promptly. After patching a tire more than three times, it is still recommended to replace the tire in a timely manner. The general service life of car tires is about 5-6 years. When this time is reached, it is also advisable to replace them promptly to avoid troubles while driving.
I've been driving for over a decade and have seen plenty of tire cracking cases. Generally, you should replace tires when the crack depth exceeds 2mm. Old tires exposed to sunlight or high temperatures are prone to cracking, especially sidewall cracks which require extra caution - imagine losing traction and having a blowout at high speed, that'd be disastrous. I remember two years ago during a long trip, I noticed a small crack on a tire's sidewall and immediately replaced it at the nearest stop to avoid constant worry. I make it a habit to check tires monthly during car washes by running fingers over cracks - if they're deep enough to fit a coin edge, or if multiple intersecting cracks extend to the tread, act fast! Typical tire lifespan is 5-6 years; inspect more frequently beyond that. Safety always comes first - don't risk major hazards to save a few hundred bucks. When getting new tires, always get a wheel alignment to prevent future issues.
As a long-distance driver who prioritizes practicality, I consider tire cracks: if they're as fine as hairline cracks, they can still be used temporarily. However, if the depth reaches around 1.5mm or the cracks spread across most of the tread, it's time to replace them without hesitation. This isn't just about safety—it's also about cost. Early replacement can avoid expensive towing fees or the high price of new tires after a blowout. Personally, I regularly measure the depth of cracks with a ruler, and if they exceed the limit, I don't hesitate to replace them. Additionally, tire aging is affected by climate—cracks tend to worsen with large temperature differences between winter and summer, so it's necessary to check tread wear and crack distribution every three months. If the vehicle is often loaded or carries more passengers, increasing the burden on the tires, the crack threshold should be lower. Choosing durable tire models and maintaining proper tire pressure can help delay cracking. In short, a small investment for greater safety is worth it!
