Does the tire edge need to be replaced if there are cracks?
2 Answers
If there are slight cracks on the car tire, determine whether the tire needs to be replaced based on the following methods: 1. Wear on the outer edge: If significant wear is observed on the outer edge of the tire in the direction of travel, it indicates that the tire is often underinflated, meaning the pressure is insufficient. Inflate according to the "highway" standard, which is 30 kPa higher than the normal standard. Note that underinflated tires are very detrimental to driving in rainy weather, as the grip will be significantly weakened. 2. Convex and wavy wear: If the tread on both sides of the tire shows convex wear and the surrounding area also shows wavy wear, it indicates severe wear on components such as the shock absorbers, bearings, and ball joints of the vehicle. It is recommended to check the wear of the suspension system and replace worn components before replacing the tire. Otherwise, replacing the tire will not help. 3. Uniform surface wear: Once the tread pattern is worn out, it means the tire's lifespan has ended, and it must be replaced. Additionally, the tread pattern also helps to drain water from the road surface, making it an important factor in maintaining the car's grip. If the wear has reached the standard depth of the tire tread (usually 1.6 mm for tires with a width less than 175 mm and 2 mm for wider tires), it should be replaced.
When I'm driving on the road and notice cracks on the tire edges, I immediately become alert because this often indicates tire aging. As someone who shuttles kids every day, safety is my top concern. These small cracks may seem insignificant, but they could be caused by sun exposure, excessive dryness, or insufficient tire pressure. If the cracks are deep or extend to the sidewalls, the risk of a blowout increases significantly, posing a serious threat to driving safety. Generally speaking, when tire edges crack, it's time to consider replacement. Ideally, use a ruler to measure the crack depth - if it exceeds 1/16 inch, don't hesitate. Regular checks of tire pressure and condition are essential habits - never wait until an emergency occurs to regret it. Tires are the lifeline of a vehicle and shouldn't be taken lightly. I recommend getting them professionally inspected as soon as possible to avoid potential hazards for family trips.
