How Long Can You Drive with Cracked Tires?

[MacTheo]

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.

[LeGabriella]

I've been driving for over 20 years and have seen many cases of tire cracking. The cracks are usually caused by rubber aging, possibly due to prolonged exposure to sunlight or long periods of inactivity. How long you can continue driving depends on the depth and location of the cracks: shallow, fine cracks might still allow you to drive in the city for a week or two, but avoid highways; deep cracks are immediately dangerous and can lead to a blowout at any time. I recommend getting them checked right away—even with normal tire pressure, it's risky because the friction heat at high speeds can exacerbate the problem. For safety, it's best to replace cracked tires as soon as possible, especially before rainy weather or long trips. Regular tire maintenance is crucial—for example, avoid letting cleaning agents corrode the tires during car washes and park in shaded areas. Tire lifespan is typically 3 to 5 years, and cracking indicates severe aging.

[GrantDella]

Don't underestimate tire cracks—they're like ticking time bombs. I've seen a friend's tire suddenly blow out on the road because of this issue. Cracks weaken the tire's strength, and how long you can keep driving varies: superficial cracks might last a few days for short trips like commuting, but the risk skyrockets at high speeds or under heavy loads. If the cracks are deep or water seeps in, an accident could happen anytime. I recommend checking the crack depth—if your fingernail can catch in it, it's time to replace the tire. Park in the shade to avoid rapid rubber deterioration. Tires aren't cheap, but safety comes first—don't skimp on this. A new tire costs just a few hundred bucks, while repairs after an accident would be far more expensive.

[Camargo]

My car's tires also had cracks last year, and I replaced them later. How much longer can I drive? There's no fixed time. Cracks occur when the rubber hardens and splits, possibly due to ozone erosion or prolonged use. If the cracks are fine and only on the outer layer, I drove for two weeks in the city before replacing them. But if they are densely packed or near the sidewalls, replace them immediately. After tires crack, slipping is more likely to happen in the rain, especially on curves. I recommend checking the tire production date; tires older than six years pose higher risks. Drive slowly and avoid sudden braking. Choosing high-quality brands when replacing tires can extend their lifespan by several years.