Should Tires with Cracks Be Replaced?
3 Answers
Tires with surface cracks should be replaced promptly. Here are some relevant details about tires: 1. Wear: Tires have wear indicators. There are triangular marks on the sidewall of the tire; when the wear reaches the point indicated by the triangle, replacement is recommended. There are also raised markers inside the tread grooves; when the wear reaches these raised markers at the tire surface, it's time to replace the tire. Simple punctures can be repaired without needing replacement. However, bulges must be replaced. 2. Aging: Rubber oxidizes in the air, and oxidized rubber hardens, reducing traction. Therefore, even if a set of tires is not used, its lifespan will decrease. The maximum recommended usage time for tires should not exceed 5 years from the production date. The production date can be found on the sidewall of the tire.
I recently changed my tires because I noticed cracks. At first, I didn’t pay much attention, thinking small cracks wouldn’t matter, but a friend warned me that deep cracks are especially dangerous, particularly at high speeds where they could cause a blowout. I realized it’s crucial to carefully check the depth and location of the cracks—those on the tire shoulder or tread are more likely to cause problems. If the cracks are deep or extend over a long area, or if the tires are already five or six years old, it’s safest to replace them immediately. Saving money isn’t worth risking your life. Last time I checked, I spent a bit to get new tires, and driving feels much more secure now. Tire aging is common, so paying attention to maintenance and avoiding blowout risks is good for both yourself and others on the road.
Having driven for so many years, I've seen quite a few accidents caused by tire cracks. Cracks can be divided into fine crazing and deep fissures. Crazing might be considered normal aging on older tires, but deep cracks, especially those appearing on the sidewalls, should be taken seriously as they indicate potential internal structural damage, significantly increasing the risk of a blowout. I believe tires should be replaced without hesitation when necessary. Generally, tires start to age after five to six years, and numerous cracks indicate they won't last much longer. During regular maintenance, it's advisable to visually inspect the tire surfaces periodically to ensure safety first. The cost of replacing tires isn't high; preventing problems before they arise is the mark of an experienced driver.