Can a cracked tire still be used?
2 Answers
Tire cracks indicate that the rubber has aged. Aging does not necessarily mean the tire is unusable, but its overall performance has declined, including reduced grip and reliability under extreme conditions. Additional information: 1. Signs of tire aging: For example: If there are numerous small cracks on the tread groove base or sidewall that are close to damaging the tire body, the tire should be replaced immediately, regardless of how long it has been used or the extent of wear. 2. Reduced groove depth: If the remaining groove depth of the tire tread reaches or falls below 1.6 millimeters (indicated by wear indicators in the longitudinal grooves), the tire must be replaced because its water drainage capability has significantly decreased, making wet-road driving hazardous. 3. Damaged tires should also be evaluated for replacement: For example, a tire that has been driven underinflated may still function when reinflated, but its internal structure may have been compromised, so it is advisable to replace it promptly. It is especially important to note that bulging tires must not be used further.
As a long-distance driver, I can tell you that tire cracks are no small matter. Last month, I noticed a hairline crack on the sidewall of my tire. When the mechanic inspected it with a flaw detector, they found the inner cord layers were damaged. They showed me a cross-section diagram – as tire rubber ages, its elasticity deteriorates, causing cracks to spread faster. Now I've developed a habit of using a flashlight to inspect my tires during every car wash, focusing on the sidewalls and tread grooves. If the crack exceeds 6cm or you see exposed steel belts, replace the tire immediately. By the way, remember tires typically have a 5-year lifespan – even without visible cracks, consider replacement after this period.