What Causes Red Discoloration on Tire Sidewalls?
2 Answers
Tire sidewall red discoloration is a normal phenomenon. The rubber compound in the sidewall area requires good aging resistance and flex-crack resistance, which necessitates the addition of anti-aging agents and paraffin wax, typically manifesting as reddish discoloration. Below are specific details about tires: 1. Normal temperature: The optimal operating temperature for dry tires ranges between 90 to 110 degrees Celsius. When temperatures exceed 100 degrees, inspection is recommended. 2. Normal tire pressure: Tire temperature varies based on driving conditions and weather. Maintaining tire pressure within the 2.4-2.6 range is considered normal. 3. Summer driving precautions: Affected by temperature, the gas inside tires automatically expands, causing tire pressure to rise from 2.3 kg to over 3 kg. To maintain proper tire pressure, it's advisable to fill tires with nitrogen in summer, reducing fill pressure by 10%.
The red discoloration on the sidewalls of tires is mainly caused by iron powder deposits from brake pad wear that oxidize and form rust stains. I've seen this many times – when brakes operate at high temperatures, metal particles are blown onto the tire sidewalls by wind and gradually turn red over time. This isn't a major issue and generally doesn't affect safe driving, though it looks unsightly. Cleaning is simple: rinsing with water removes most of it; for stubborn spots, use mild soap and a brush, avoiding acidic cleaners that could damage the tire. This phenomenon is more common in city driving due to higher pollution and dust levels. Regular car washing is recommended, along with checking the brake system every 5,000 km for normal wear to prevent excessive iron buildup. For prevention, parking in dry areas reduces moisture exposure, helping delay rust formation. Overall, it's just a cosmetic issue – don't worry too much, just clean it when convenient.
