Can You Pour Water on Tires When Driving on the Highway in Summer?
3 Answers
You should not pour water on tires when driving on the highway in summer. When hot tires are suddenly exposed to cold water, local thermal expansion and contraction can occur, causing deformation of the tire's internal structure. Rapid temperature changes can also create conflicts between the layers of the tire. If the tire is already aged, this could potentially lead to an explosion. Important Reminders: When driving long distances on the highway, even if you can endure the heat, your vehicle might not. Therefore, it is advisable to stop at a highway rest area every two hours to check tire pressure and look for any punctures or nails in the tires. Avoid Cooling Tires with Water: Pouring water to cool tires can accelerate tire aging and, in severe cases, cause a tire explosion. This is especially critical for large trucks. If you notice smoke coming from the tires, it's best to pull over and let them cool naturally.
I remember one scorching summer day on the highway, I saw someone splashing water on their tires to cool them down at a rest stop - what a risky move. When tires run at high speeds, their temperature can reach 70-80°C. Dousing them with cold water is like adding water to hot oil; the sudden thermal contraction of rubber could cause immediate cracking. Plus, when hot road surfaces meet water, they create a layer of steam that instantly reduces traction, potentially causing steering wheel slippage. If you really need to cool your tires, the proper method is to park in the service area for twenty minutes to let them cool naturally, or check your tire pressure in advance to ensure it's not over the limit. Carrying a tire pressure monitor in your car is far more reliable than splashing water - it can even help prevent dangerous blowouts.
My friend who works in auto repair told me that last year, a car owner splashed ice water on their tires, causing an immediate blowout. The principle is simple: tires subjected to prolonged high-speed friction become like red-hot iron, and cold water causes the rubber to contract violently. It's similar to pouring boiling water into a hot glass in winter—the glass might shatter. Especially in summer, when road surface temperatures can easily reach 60-70°C on highways, splashing water poses a greater risk than the blowout itself. It's recommended to lower the air conditioning temperature to help dissipate heat from the tires or choose to travel during early morning or evening hours to avoid peak temperatures.
