How Long Can a Car Tire with Cracks Still Be Used?
2 Answers
How long a car tire with cracks can still be used depends on the actual situation. Factors such as the duration of use, driving habits, road conditions, natural aging, or cracking of the tire should be considered separately. A professional inspection and testing should be conducted before deciding whether to replace it. Car tires are one of the important components of a vehicle, directly in contact with the road surface. Together with the car suspension, they help to cushion the impact during driving, ensuring good ride comfort and smooth driving. They also ensure good adhesion between the wheels and the road surface, improving the car's traction, braking, and maneuverability, while bearing the weight of the car.
From a safety perspective, seeing cracks in car tires is definitely a red flag—don't underestimate them. Cracks are usually the result of rubber aging, caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight or improper use, such as frequently driving on rough roads or failing to check tire pressure regularly. If the cracks are deep on the sidewalls or extend across the entire tread, the risk is even higher, as they can lead to air leaks or blowouts, especially on highways—the consequences could be terrifying. I recommend stopping the vehicle immediately and having it evaluated by a professional tire shop—don't delay. Replacing them is the safest option, but if the cracks are minor and the technician says they're still usable, you might be able to stretch them for a few hundred more miles, but keep the speed below 60 km/h. Remember, the average lifespan of tires is 4-5 years—if cracks appear beyond that period, don't use them. Safety is far more important than saving money—you only have one life.
