How to Protect Car Tires?
2 Answers
Tires gradually age during use and typically begin to develop fine cracks after 2-3 years. Once noticeable cracks appear on the sidewalls, it indicates a significant reduction in tire strength, increasing the risk of bulges and blowouts. Therefore, tires with cracks should be replaced as soon as possible to ensure driving safety. Here are some tire protection tips: 1. Maintain proper inflation pressure. In winter, due to lower temperatures and the principle of thermal expansion and contraction, drivers should slightly increase tire pressure to reduce wear. However, on icy roads, excessive inflation pressure can severely impair tire traction, leading to accidents. It is recommended to use 10% to 15% higher than the standard inflation pressure in such conditions. When tire pressure is insufficient, it should be promptly replenished. 2. Control driving speed. After parking in cold weather, tires become stiff, so it's essential to drive at a lower speed upon restarting. 3. Enhance protection and cleanliness. Before and after driving in cold seasons, pay attention to tire cleaning. Before driving, check the tread grooves for debris like glass shards or ice chunks. If present, avoid pouring boiling water to melt them, as the hard debris lodged in the grooves can cause damage. Instead, use warm water to rinse the wheels before starting the car. Additionally, always inspect the tires for nails or other sharp objects.
My old car has driven 100,000 kilometers, and the tires still look like new, mainly thanks to a few simple methods. When driving, try to avoid potholes whenever possible. If you can't avoid them, slow down and drive carefully—never hit them hard. Every month, pick a weekend to check the tire pressure with a gauge and top up the air according to the standard values posted on the door frame. This is especially important. Try not to scrape the curb when parking, as a scratch on the sidewall could ruin a tire. Use the tip of a key to pick out small stones stuck in the tread. Every 7,000 to 8,000 kilometers, get the tires rotated to ensure even wear between the front and rear tires. Actually, tires are sensitive to chemicals, so avoid excessive use of tire wax when washing the car, as it can accelerate rubber aging. Nowadays, tires have triangular wear indicators on the sidewalls—once the tread wears down to that mark, replace them immediately. Safety comes first.
