Can tires with cracks be driven on highways?
2 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.
