Do small cracks on tires require replacement?
3 Answers
If cracks appear on the tire sidewall, it is necessary to promptly visit a repair shop for inspection and replace them if needed. Below is relevant information about car tire replacement: Replacement duration varies depending on the situation: For drivers with good driving habits, tires generally need replacement every 3-5 years or after driving 60,000-80,000 kilometers. If driving conditions are more severe, such as frequently traveling on gravel roads or experiencing frequent traffic jams, sudden braking, or sharp turns, the replacement interval will be shorter. Tire aging period: The main material of tires is rubber, which undergoes natural aging. This primarily manifests as hardening of the tire and the appearance of small cracks on the sidewalls. The typical natural aging period is 4-5 years. Tires should be replaced after 5 years to prevent the risk of blowouts. Observing tire wear: If tire wear is severe and the tread pattern has reached the same level as the wear indicators, the tires should be replaced. Otherwise, braking on wet or slippery roads will be more difficult, and the vehicle may easily lose control. Additionally, driving on excessively rough roads increases the risk of blowouts.
As a car owner, I become extra cautious when small cracks appear on the tires. These cracks could be signs of aging, especially if the tires have been in use for over five years or frequently exposed to sunlight, as the rubber becomes brittle and prone to cracking. I've encountered similar situations before—ignoring small cracks that later developed into major issues, increasing the risk of a blowout at high speeds. Checking the location of the cracks is crucial: if they're on the tire sidewalls, even tiny cracks are dangerous because that area bears significant load. A simple method to test the depth is using your fingernail—if the crack exceeds 2mm or exposes the inner cords, it's definitely time for a replacement. With safety as the top priority, I recommend visiting a professional shop immediately for an inspection. They can assess whether it's safe to continue using the tires—don't gamble with safety to save money. Parking in shaded areas whenever possible and maintaining proper tire pressure can also reduce the likelihood of cracks. In short, tires are the lifeline of driving—never underestimate small cracks.
I maintain a rational perspective when it comes to small cracks. Not all cracks require tire replacement; minor tread patterns could be natural wear, posing minimal risk if the tires are still relatively new. I monitor the cracks for a few days to observe any changes—if they don't expand, I continue using them. From a cost-saving standpoint, getting a free diagnosis at a tire shop is the most economical choice, as they use professional equipment to assess lifespan and pressure. For daily commutes like city driving, minor cracks have little impact, but they should be rechecked before long trips. Additionally, I avoid overloading or sharp turns, as these accelerate tire damage. UV aging is a primary cause, so using a cover when parked can extend tire life. Overall, evaluating costs and risks carefully ensures prudent action.
