Can Water Be Used to Cool Tires During Long-Distance High-Speed Driving?
2 Answers
Long-distance high-speed tires should not be cooled with water. The correct approach is to stop the vehicle immediately and wait for the brake drums or tires to cool down naturally before continuing. Otherwise, it may lead to brake failure, increased tire wear, or even a tire blowout. Avoid the temptation to save time by splashing cold water, as this can cause the tires and friction linings to delaminate or crack, and the brake drums to deform due to uneven cooling. Here are some relevant tips: Avoid prolonged driving; take appropriate breaks during long trips to reduce fuel temperature. Monitor the water temperature to prevent overheating, which can also cause the engine to stall. If the engine stalls frequently during the journey, park the vehicle in a safe location, open the fuel filler cap and the engine hood for about half an hour before restarting. Most importantly, listen for any abnormal noises from the fuel pump. If none are heard, you can continue driving normally.
I often drive long distances on highways, and every time the car runs for a long time on the highway, the tires do get so hot that they're burning to the touch. Some people say splashing some water can cool them down faster, but this is actually a big trap. Last year, a friend of mine tried it—after pouring water, the tires suddenly contracted from the cold, and not long after, they blew out, nearly causing a disaster. The reason is that the tire material can't handle drastic temperature changes, making it prone to cracking or even structural damage. A safer and more practical method is to pull over at a rest area and let the car sit for about 15 minutes, allowing the tires to naturally dissipate heat. Also, check the tire pressure before heading out—if it's too low, friction increases, causing faster heat buildup. I’ve made it a habit to check tire wear and pressure before every long trip, and during hot seasons, I avoid driving for extended periods at noon. During breaks, I take a short walk to get some fresh air—both the driver and the car benefit from added safety and peace of mind. After all, a blowout at high speed is a serious risk, and prevention is always better than dealing with the aftermath. Don’t rush or resort to quick fixes.
