Can tires with cracks be driven on highways?
4 Answers
Tires with cracks cannot be driven on highways. Relevant information about tire cracks is as follows: 1. Situation regarding tire cracks: The appearance of cracks on tires indicates that the tires are severely aged and cannot withstand prolonged high-speed driving, making them prone to accidents on highways. 2. Tire mileage and age: Generally, the service life of tires is 5-6 years, and they can travel 70,000-80,000 kilometers. However, it should be noted that the mileage or age, whichever comes first, should be the determining factor. This is because even if the car is not driven frequently, the rubber can harden and become brittle, increasing the risk of a tire blowout.
Tires with cracks are definitely unsafe for highway driving. Those small cracks may seem insignificant, but the heat generated from high-speed friction can cause them to expand instantly, leading to rapid air loss or blowouts—just like a balloon bursting. This is my biggest fear when driving on highways, as a blowout can easily cause the vehicle to lose control and roll over, especially when fully loaded or on wet roads. Aging rubber is a common cause of cracks, so extra caution is needed for tires older than five or six years. Parking in direct sunlight can also accelerate cracking, so it's advisable to visually inspect tire surfaces quarterly. If cracks are found, don’t hesitate—head to a professional repair shop for evaluation and replacement. Safe travel is far more important than saving a few bucks; never gamble with your life.
I think if the tires have cracks, it's better not to drive on the highway. This is no small matter. At high speeds, tires endure tremendous pressure and temperature changes, and small cracks can develop into large fissures, leading to a blowout. Once, my neighbor drove on the highway with a small crack in the tire, and it ended up blowing out halfway, nearly causing an accident. Tire cracks are usually caused by aging or underinflation. When parking, avoid exposing the tires to prolonged direct sunlight, and regularly check the tire pressure to maintain the correct level. If there are cracks, move them to the rear wheels and drive slowly to get them checked, but definitely avoid highways. Spend a few extra minutes inspecting the tires during vehicle maintenance—it can be a lifesaver in critical moments.
Don't even think about driving on the highway if your tires have cracks. High-speed driving increases tire temperature, making the rubber at the cracks more prone to tearing or even bursting. Imagine losing control of the steering wheel during a high-speed blowout—it could lead to a serious accident. A simple way to test crack depth is to insert a one-yuan coin into the crack; if the text on the coin is visible, it's dangerous. Pay attention to tire maintenance during daily driving, especially for tires over five years old, as they are more likely to show signs of aging. If you notice any cracks, drive to a repair shop immediately for inspection—don't risk driving on the highway.
