Does a cracked tire need to be replaced?
2 Answers
Tires with cracks need to be replaced. Below are the criteria for determining when a tire should be replaced: 1. Small-scale cracking: It is generally acceptable to continue using the tire. However, if the cracking is extensive and covers almost the entire tread, replacement is necessary. Not only does this affect the comfort level of the tire (noise reduction), but it also significantly reduces the tire's grip performance, posing a certain danger while driving. 2. Tire wear level: Almost every tire has a wear indicator. For passenger car tires, the wear indicator height is typically 1.6 millimeters (this is also the legal minimum tread groove depth), while for load-bearing tires, it is 2.4 millimeters. If the wear indicator is flush with the tread, it means the tire is nearly worn out and should be replaced promptly.
I've experienced a similar situation before. Once when my tire had a crack, I initially thought I could just make do with it, but it nearly caused an accident. Tire cracks are usually caused by aging, possibly due to prolonged exposure to sunlight or scratches from sharp objects. The most dangerous cracks are on the sidewall because the thinner areas are prone to blowouts. I recommend stopping immediately to check the size and location of the crack: if the depth exceeds 1.5mm or it's at the edge of the tread, you absolutely must replace it. Don't risk your family's safety just to save a few hundred bucks. When driving safely, don't forget to regularly inflate your tires and maintain standard tire pressure, which can slow down the aging process. In short, if your tire has a crack, don't delay—find a reliable shop to get a new tire and ensure peace of mind on the road.
