Should I Replace My Car Tires if They Have Minor Cracks?

[DiSadie]

Whether to replace car tires with minor cracks depends on the specific circumstances, as detailed below: 1. Cracking on the tread: If the cracking occurs on the tread, the need for replacement can be determined based on the severity of the cracks. However, if the cracks appear on the sidewall, especially at the junction between the sidewall and the triangular rubber, immediate replacement is necessary. 2. Outer rubber cracking: If the outer rubber is cracked, the sidewall's load-bearing capacity becomes uneven, and overinflated tires may pose a potential risk of blowouts. Therefore, sidewall cracks must be replaced promptly. 3. Wear level with indicators: If the wear reaches the level of the tire's wear indicators, the tire is essentially worn smooth and should be replaced. Otherwise, it will affect traction, indirectly impacting power, braking performance, and water drainage. In rainy conditions, smooth tires cannot drain water, potentially causing the vehicle to skid or lose control even on shallow water-covered roads.