What Causes Cracks on the Side of a Tire?
3 Answers
Tire sidewall cracks can be caused by: 1. Natural aging: Prolonged exposure to wind and sunlight causes rubber to deteriorate over time, leading to natural cracking; 2. Impact damage: Frequent driving on rough or gravel roads inevitably subjects tires to impacts, which is normal as long as the damage isn't severe - the vehicle remains operational. When inflating tires, ensure they've cooled to normal temperature to avoid pressure measurement errors. Maintain inflation between 2.4-2.6 bar (35-38 psi), neither overinflating nor underinflating. Regularly inspect tire wear patterns and repair/replace when necessary.
I noticed a crack on the sidewall of the tire, which is most likely due to aging. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can make the rubber brittle and develop cracks, or it might have been accidentally scraped against the curb. The sidewall has poor structural support, and deep cracks can easily lead to a blowout, which is very dangerous. It's recommended to stop driving immediately and check whether the crack is shallow or deep. Usually, you can assess the severity by visual inspection, but for safety's sake, it's best to replace the tire outright. When parking, avoid getting too close to hard objects, and regularly use a pressure gauge to check the tire pressure to prevent excessive wear due to low pressure. Last time I encountered this issue, I promptly went to the shop for a replacement. Before long trips, I always carefully inspect the sidewalls to ensure they're safe and intact.
I often tinker with vehicle maintenance myself, and when encountering cracks on the tire sidewall, I consider the specific location. The sidewall is the weakest part of the tire, and cracks may indicate damage to the cord ply or aging and cracking. When inspecting it myself, I feel the depth of the crack with my hand; if it's deep, the internal structure might be compromised, so don't risk patching it. Common causes include impacts or chemical corrosion, such as prolonged parking on oily surfaces. It's advisable to switch to the spare tire or call for roadside assistance immediately. I also keep a tire pressure monitoring tool for regular checks, which helps reduce unexpected incidents, prolong tire life, and ensure safe and smooth driving.
