How Long Can You Drive with Cracked Tires?
1 Answers
Tires with cracks can still be temporarily used for about a year, as the cracks are caused by natural rubber aging. Generally, small cracks may appear on tires after 3 to 5 years of use. If the tires have been used for more than 5 years, they become harder, produce more noise, and essentially lose their rubber properties, making them unsuitable for further use and requiring timely replacement. The most common sign of tire rubber aging is the appearance of cracks and numerous small fissures on the tire surface, a phenomenon known as tire cracking. Since tire rubber requires a certain level of hardness, a process called vulcanization is employed during manufacturing. Vulcanized rubber increases hardness but tends to age over time. These small cracks typically appear on the inner and outer sidewalls and the tread grooves. Severe cracking can cause the rubber to lose its inherent physical and chemical properties. Since tires are made of rubber, some degree of cracking is inevitable after prolonged use. Exposure to air, direct sunlight, exhaust fumes, and ozone pollution can all accelerate the cracking process. Long-term use of tire cleaners may inadvertently remove or damage additives such as antioxidants and anti-ozonants in the tires. Sun exposure or excessive cleaning are just minor causes of small cracks. Frequent driving can help prevent tire rubber aging, as the repeated stretching of the rubber during travel aids in preventing crack formation.
