What are the causes of small cracks on the sidewalls of tires?
2 Answers
The reasons for cracks on the sidewalls of tires: 1. Poor maintenance or driving on gravel roads and construction sites, where hard objects come into contact with the tires, causing damage to the inner layers of the tires under heavy pressure; 2. Long-term use leading to rubber aging, resulting in numerous fine cracks on the sidewalls, a common phenomenon in tires over 4 years old. Methods to address cracks on the sidewalls of tires: 1. Outer edge wear: If observing in the direction of travel, there is significant wear on the outer edge of the tire, indicating that the tire is often underinflated. Inflate according to the "highway" standard, which is 30 kPa more than the normal standard; 2. Convex and wavy wear: If the tire's circumference shows wavy wear, it indicates severe wear of components such as shock absorbers, bearings, and ball joints. It is recommended to check the wear of the suspension system and replace worn components before changing the tire.
After driving for so many years, I've noticed that small cracks on the sidewalls of tires are mainly due to the rapid aging of rubber. The tire material becomes brittle when continuously exposed to UV sunlight, cracking like aged tree bark. There's also natural wear and tear from long-term use, especially when frequently turning on bumpy roads or driving in hot weather, which accelerates this process. Daily habits play a role too—insufficient tire pressure or overloading increases sidewall stress, making cracks more likely. Additionally, occasional contact with chemicals like oil stains or improper cleaning agents can corrode the surface. For safety, once cracks appear, check the tire's wear and pressure immediately—don't wait for a blowout to regret it. Regular tire replacement is a necessary precaution, as it directly impacts high-speed driving safety!
