Can Tires with Small Cracks Still Be Used?
2 Answers
Tires with small cracks should not continue to be used. Below are the reasons related to small cracks in tires: 1. Causes of Cracking: Tires are made of rubber, and like all rubber materials, they will age over time, becoming harder and developing cracks. Even with normal use and good driving habits that minimize wear, tires exposed to sunlight and rain will typically show signs of aging after about five years. Spare tires, stored in the trunk, age more slowly. 2. Risks of Continued Use: If tires become hard or develop cracks, they should be replaced immediately, especially before highway driving. Aged tires have reduced grip, longer braking distances, and make vehicle control during braking more difficult. Additionally, cracked tires are prone to blowouts at high speeds, which is extremely dangerous. Therefore, for safety reasons, it is advisable to replace the tires as soon as possible.
When there are small cracks on the tires, I personally think they can still be used for a while, but with caution. These cracks may be caused by tire aging or prolonged exposure to sunlight, resulting in fine surface grooves. The key is to assess the depth and location of the cracks. If they are only shallow on the tread and haven't spread, short-distance driving should be fine, but the risk increases on highways or under heavy loads. I've experienced similar situations—driving for a few days was manageable, but over time, I noticed unstable handling, especially in rainy conditions where grip decreased. It's advisable to regularly check the tire condition. If the cracks expand or the tires are over 6 years old, replacing them promptly is safer. It's best to have a professional inspect the internal structure—a tire blowout is no small matter and can threaten driving safety.
