Can Tires with Groove Cracks Still Be Used?
4 Answers
Tires with groove cracks cannot be used. Specific situations of tire cracks include: 1. If the tire shows signs of aging, with numerous small cracks at the bottom of the tread grooves or the tire sidewall that are close to damaging the tire body, it is necessary to replace the tire promptly. 2. If the remaining groove depth of the tire tread reaches or falls below 1.6 millimeters, the tire must be replaced. The tire's drainage capability decreases, increasing the risk of slipping on wet roads, and overly thin tires also pose a danger of blowouts during driving. Although tires that have been run underinflated can still be driven in an inflated state, the internal structure of the tire may have been damaged, so it is recommended to replace them with new tires promptly. Bulging tires should not continue to be used.
Noticing cracks in the tire grooves immediately put me on high alert. This is typically a sign of rubber aging, likely caused by UV exposure, dryness, or high temperatures. If the cracks deepen, the tire becomes brittle and loses elasticity, significantly reducing grip on wet roads and greatly increasing the risk of skidding or blowouts. Tires are the only part of the car that touches the road—if they fail, it's game over. My advice? Don't skimp on safety—replace those tires ASAP. Make it a habit to visually inspect tire surfaces and grooves weekly, especially if your parking spot is in constant sunlight, as UV protection is crucial. If your tires are over 5 years old, replace them regardless of crack size—new tires are a lifesaver.
As someone who enjoys tinkering with my car, I've learned that checking for cracks in tire grooves requires meticulous attention. First, use your fingers to feel the groove depth - standard passenger tires should have at least 1.6mm tread depth for safety. If the cracks are shallow and haven't penetrated deep into the rubber, temporary use is possible but avoid high-speed or long-distance driving. Insert a coin into the cracks to test their depth - if they exceed the tire's wear indicator thickness, it becomes dangerous. I make it a habit to maintain proper tire pressure regularly to prevent uneven heat distribution that could worsen cracks. Of course, the best approach is to visit a repair shop for professional evaluation - they can assess whether the internal rubber is damaged. Never attempt DIY repairs with tire sealants as they can't properly address this issue.
Once while driving, I noticed fine cracks on my tires and broke out in a cold sweat. Tires are made of rubber and naturally degrade over time, with cracks in the tread revealing potential issues. Small cracks might not affect driving, but larger ones increase the risk of a blowout during sharp turns, especially at high speeds or in heavy rain. I believe regular inspections are key—tires typically last about six years, so check them every season when you wash your car. Don’t wait for an accident to regret it; a new tire costs a few hundred bucks, but an accident could cost much more. Here’s a tip: If parked under the sun for too long, use a car cover to block UV rays and extend tire life. Safety is priceless.
