What Causes Car Tire Cracking?

[ElianaRose]

Tire cracking causes: 1. Traumatic cracking: This type of cracking usually occurs irregularly in terms of location, shape, and size, resulting from collisions, compression, or scraping against foreign objects while driving. Some cracks only appear on the rubber surface, while others may damage the tire body cords, with severe cases leading to instant tire deflation. 2. Aging cracks: These cracks typically appear in the later stages of tire use, mostly on the tire shoulder or lower sidewall, and sometimes at the bottom of tread grooves. This phenomenon is a natural change in tire rubber due to long-term flexing and heat generation. Prolonged driving with low tire pressure can accelerate this process, but it generally doesn't affect the tire's service life or safety performance, and usually doesn't require premature replacement.

[CoraLee]

My car tires cracked before, and after checking, I found out the main reason was tire aging. The car is parked outside every day, and the sun's exposure hardens and brittles the rubber, leading to cracks over time. Incorrect tire pressure is also a big issue: too low pressure causes the tire to deform, and excessive bending of the sidewall can easily lead to cracks; too high pressure increases the risk of the tire bursting under stress. Once, I overloaded my car with cargo, and the increased tire pressure caused cracks on the spot. Environmental factors like cold winter temperatures making rubber brittle, or parking by the roadside where the tires come into contact with oil or chemicals, can also contribute. Driving at high speeds with worn treads makes tires more prone to cracking. It's best to develop a habit of checking tire pressure and surface condition every quarter, especially during the hot summer months, to detect and address issues early. When replacing tires, don't just go for the cheapest option—safety comes first. Usually, parking in the shade to avoid direct sunlight can extend tire life.

[DanteMarie]

There are many reasons for tire cracking, and I believe the main one is rubber aging. Over time, the material naturally degrades, losing elasticity and eventually cracking. Sun exposure is the primary culprit, as UV rays have strong destructive power, directly damaging the rubber structure. Tire pressure is also critical: long-term underinflation causes deformation and stress concentration, while overinflation increases the risk of impact damage. Improper use, such as overloading or sudden braking and acceleration, also accelerates cracking. It is recommended to avoid prolonged parking outside garages and regularly check and adjust tire pressure to the appropriate value using a tire pressure gauge. Don't overlook the tire environment either; cold winter temperatures make tires hard and prone to cracking, and contact with chemicals can corrode the rubber. If cracks are large or deep, replace the tire immediately without hesitation to prevent blowouts on the road. Regular maintenance is key to extending tire life and ensuring safe driving.

[ArielFitz]

Buddy, tire cracks are usually caused by aging. Excessive sunlight accelerates rubber degradation, so park in the shade. Incorrect tire pressure is also harmful—follow the standard values listed in the manual. Driving aggressively at high speeds increases tire wear, leading to cracks over time. Don’t slack off; check the surface condition monthly and replace tires promptly if issues are found. Drive safely and don’t cut corners—choose durable tire models when replacing. Temperature extremes also matter; cold weather makes rubber brittle, so avoid parking outdoors in winter. Prevention is key—simple checks ensure safety.

[VonBethany]

Tire cracking is extremely dangerous, especially when driving with family. I believe the root causes are aging or prolonged exposure to sunlight. Over time, rubber naturally weakens and becomes prone to cracking. Improper tire pressure—such as too low, which increases sidewall stress during bends, or too high, which heightens impact forces—can also trigger cracks. Our family car once developed cracks due to neglected tire pressure. Remember to perform regular maintenance: check tire pressure and inspect the surface monthly to detect issues early. If deep cracks appear, don’t delay—prioritize safety and replace them promptly, as money is secondary. Park in shaded areas and protect tires from harsh environments to minimize damage. Developing good habits ensures safer driving.