How long does it take for tires to be affected by soaking in water?
3 Answers
Rainwater has certain corrosive properties and can easily react chemically with impurities normally stuck to the tires, causing surface corrosion. The following related content is introduced: 1. Tire surface corrosion: Soaking tires in water for a day during rainy weather can affect them. Prolonged soaking causes water to evaporate into steam, increasing internal pressure and leading to tire deformation or reduced durability. 2. Tire storage methods: Protect tires from direct sunlight, UV exposure, rain, ozone, oil contamination, and heat. When storing tires, it is important to place them in a cool, shaded area and release the air inside the tires. Avoid direct sunlight.
Once during the rainy season, I parked my car in a low-lying area, and the tires were submerged in water for several days. Afterward, I noticed obvious instability while driving. Tires are made of rubber, and short-term exposure to clean water for a few hours is fine. However, if left submerged for more than two days, sediment and chemicals in the water can seep in, accelerating rubber aging and corroding the internal structure. I observed small cracks on the tread after the tires were soaked for over a week, increasing the risk of a high-speed blowout. For safety, I recommend moving the car to a dry area immediately upon discovering submerged tires, cleaning surface residue, and checking for obvious damage. If possible, have a professional shop use equipment to test internal moisture—don’t delay handling it. Before parking during the rainy season, choose higher ground to avoid waterlogged areas and reduce the chance of submersion. Regular tire maintenance can prevent such issues, extend service life, and save on repair costs.
With years of experience in auto repair, I've seen it all. The impact of water immersion on tires depends on duration. Short-term soaking for a few hours (like during car washes) won't affect tire waterproofing. However, if submerged over 24 hours, contaminants in water begin corroding the tire body. Prolonged immersion beyond a week may cause steel belt rusting and tire softening, leading to bumpy rides. I've handled cases where tires submerged for months showed complete internal rust when replaced. Recommendation: For tires soaked in dirty water (e.g., rainwater mixed with urban runoff), minimize exposure time – remove, wipe dry immediately. If damage is suspected, have a technician inspect without delay. Never ignore potential issues to save money, as reduced traction increases rainy-day skidding risks. Safety first! When storing spare tires, avoid damp garages – maintain ventilated, dry conditions. Prevention beats repairs, saving both hassle and money.
