Can Cracked Tires Still Be Used?

[OReagan]

Cracked tires should not be used. Tire cracking indicates that the rubber has aged. While aging does not necessarily mean the tire is unusable, its overall performance has declined, including grip and reliability under extreme conditions. These issues can pose risks, especially at high speeds. It is recommended to replace the tire with a new one to ensure safety. When cracks appear on tires, the specific situation should be evaluated: 1. If the tire shows signs of aging, such as numerous small cracks on the tread grooves or sidewalls 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. If the remaining groove depth of the tire tread reaches or falls below 1.6 millimeters (as indicated by the depth markers in the longitudinal grooves of the tread), the tire must be replaced because its drainage capacity has significantly decreased, making driving on wet surfaces more hazardous. 3. Damaged tires should also be assessed for replacement. For example, tires that have been driven underinflated may still function when reinflated, but their internal structure may have been compromised, so timely replacement is advised. Notably, bulging tires must not be used further.

[MacNolan]

Whether a cracked tire can still be used depends on the size, location, and depth of the crack. If it's just a minor surface crack, no deeper than 1-2 millimeters, and only on the tread, you might be able to drive short distances in urban areas at speeds below 60 km/h, but you should replace it at a repair shop as soon as possible. Cracking is usually caused by tire aging or weather changes making the rubber brittle, and delaying repairs poses significant risks, such as blowouts at high speeds or skidding and losing control, leading to accidents. With 20 years of driving experience, I've seen similar cases and generally recommend carefully inspecting all crevices with a phone flashlight before driving, pressing the tire sidewalls to check for softening or bulges. It's best not to cut corners—just replace the tire for safety. Regularly checking tire pressure and cracks monthly can prevent such issues, and making it a habit saves a lot of hassle.

[GiannaLee]

As a young car owner, I immediately panic when I see tire cracks, fearing an accident on the road. Cracked tires are truly unsafe, especially if the cracks are deep or located on the sidewall, as that area bears significant pressure and has a high risk of bursting at high speeds. Cracks may result from prolonged exposure to sun and rain or improper parking. When inspecting, use your finger to check the depth—if it exceeds 1 mm, replace the tire immediately. A friend of mine tried to save money by ignoring small cracks, only to suffer a blowout mid-drive, nearly causing injury, with repair costs exceeding the price of a new tire. Safety comes first—always check tire condition before driving, maintain proper tire pressure, and opt for reputable tire brands to minimize worries. Never gamble with safety—acting decisively is the smart choice.

[Jamie]

Whether you can drive with cracked tires depends on the situation. Small, shallow cracks might allow you to limp to a repair shop, but avoid long-distance or high-speed driving. Cracking is caused by rubber aging—pay special attention to the tire sidewalls, as they're the most vulnerable and prone to blowouts under pressure. Replace them promptly; saving small costs now could lead to bigger risks. Regular tire maintenance can extend their lifespan.