Is it okay if there are cracks in the tire tread?

[ReidMarie]

Tires with cracks should not continue to be used. Here is some information about cracked tires: 1. Service life: Generally, the service life of tires is 3-5 years. Over time, even with careful driving, the surface may harden and develop cracks. Continuing to use such tires poses a risk of blowouts. 2. Tire usage precautions: Avoid turning the steering wheel while stationary, as this is often a bad habit left over from driving school. It causes wear on a single contact point of the tire, leading to severe localized wear and shortening the tire's lifespan. Always turn the steering wheel while the wheels are rolling. Avoid driving on curbs, as mounting curbs can easily cause tire bulges. Also, be cautious of potholes on the road and try to avoid them, as driving quickly over rough surfaces can lead to tire bulges and tread separation.

[SanTeagan]

Having driven for over a decade, I always get nervous when I see cracks in the tire tread—it directly relates to driving safety. Small cracks might just be a natural sign of rubber aging, but if the cracks are deep or spread across the tread, they can cause skidding or even blowouts, especially in rainy conditions or at high speeds. A simple check is to insert a coin into the crack; if the edge of the coin is visible, it’s time to replace the tire. Common causes include prolonged sun exposure, low tire pressure, or extended use—typically, tires last about five years, so don’t hesitate to replace them if they’re past their prime. Safety is no small matter: checking tire pressure monthly and avoiding parking in direct sunlight can save you big trouble. A friend of mine ignored minor cracks and ended up spending thousands on repairs after a rainy-day blowout—totally not worth it.

[MacEliana]

Having been in the auto repair industry for so many years, I've seen countless tire cracks. Minor surface cracks are usually harmless—they're just signs of rubber aging. However, deep cracks reaching the carcass layer or located on the sidewall demand immediate attention. A simple test: use a key to check the depth. If the crack is deep, replace the tire without hesitation—don't skimp on a few hundred bucks. Tire aging is often caused by prolonged sun exposure and unstable tire pressure. I recommend checking tread conditions weekly and maintaining manufacturer-recommended tire pressure. For tires older than six years, even minor cracks warrant replacement—I've seen too many clients regret skimping only to face costly roadside breakdowns. Don't slack on maintenance; park in shaded areas to extend tire lifespan.

[GeorgeAnn]

As a novice driver, I also worry about tire cracks, but a friend taught me a simple way to judge: small superficial cracks are harmless, but deep cracks or those that spread require immediate tire replacement. Using a coin for testing is the most practical method—if the crack reaches the edge of the coin, it's time to act. Check tire pressure once a week to maintain normal values, which can help reduce cracks. Avoid parking in direct sunlight to prolong rubber durability. Safety comes first—don't gamble with luck. Taking the time to replace tires is much easier than dealing with repairs later. Tire issues affect handling, especially on wet or slippery roads.