Can Tires Withstand High-Speed Driving in Summer?
2 Answers
Whether tires can withstand high-speed driving in summer mainly depends on their own condition. Extended information: Causes of tire blowouts: 1. Tire leakage: When punctured by nails or other sharp objects without immediate rupture, the tire may leak air, leading to a blowout. 2. Excessive tire pressure: As the car drives at high speed, the tire temperature rises, increasing the pressure and causing deformation, which reduces the tire's elasticity and increases dynamic load. Impacts can then cause internal cracks or blowouts, which is why blowout accidents are more common in summer. 3. Insufficient tire pressure: When driving at high speeds (over 120km/h), low tire pressure can cause 'harmonic vibration' in the tire body, generating significant resonant forces. If the tire is not strong enough or already damaged, it is prone to blowouts. Additionally, low pressure increases tire deflection, making the sidewalls more likely to touch the ground during sharp turns. The sidewall is the weakest part of the tire, and contact with the ground can also cause blowouts. 4. Aging and damage: Over time, tires wear severely, with tread patterns disappearing (or being too low) and sidewalls thinning, turning into what is commonly called 'bald tires' or developing uneven 'weak spots.' These tires cannot withstand the high pressure and temperature of high-speed driving, leading to blowouts.
Driving on the highway in summer is indeed a test for tires. High temperatures can soften the rubber, and the friction from high-speed driving generates heat, which may cause tire pressure to spike, increasing the risk of a blowout. I often encounter this situation during long trips, so I always check the tire pressure carefully before setting off, ensuring it's about 0.2 bar lower than the recommended value. On the highway, prolonged driving leads to rapid temperature rises, making tires prone to deformation or leaks. Therefore, I stop to rest every two hours to let the tires cool naturally. Choosing heat-resistant tires specifically designed for summer is crucial—some brands' high-performance models, for example, can better withstand high temperatures. It's also important to monitor tire aging; if there are cracks or bulges on the sidewalls, replace them immediately to avoid accidents. When driving on the highway, maintain an appropriate speed—don’t exceed 120 km/h—to reduce tire stress and improve safety. Regular maintenance, including tire pressure monitoring, can effectively prevent issues.