What Causes Small Cracks on the Side of Car Tires?
4 Answers
Car tire sidewall small cracks are caused by: 1. Natural aging of the tire; 2. Impact damage to the tire. Precautions for using car tires include: 1. When inflating tires, reduce the tire temperature to normal levels to avoid affecting pressure judgment; 2. Inflate to approximately 2.5bar; 3. Regularly check the wear level of car tires; 4. Avoid exposing tires to high temperatures and direct sunlight. Conditions requiring tire replacement due to cracks: 1. Cracks appear on the sidewall; 2. Cracks are too long or deep, reaching the tread wear indicator depth of 1.6mm; 3. Tire bulging occurs; 4. Wavy cracks on the tire surface; 5. Visible scratches or punctures on the tire surface.
I've seen quite a few cases of fine cracks on tire sidewalls, mainly due to rubber aging and environmental factors. Tires are made of rubber, and over time the material naturally degrades, especially under prolonged sunlight exposure where UV rays can make the rubber brittle and prone to cracking. Additionally, exposure to rainwater, road de-icing agents, or polluted air can accelerate corrosion. Usage habits also play a crucial role - consistently underinflated tires or frequent overloading put extra stress on the sidewalls during turns, making them more susceptible to cracks. Parking in poorly ventilated damp areas or places with chemical spills can also cause damage. For prevention, regularly inspect your tires including the sidewalls - if cracks multiply or deepen, consider replacement as safety comes first. Maintaining proper tire pressure, avoiding prolonged parking under direct sunlight, and investing in high-quality tires can all help slow down the aging process.
I pay close attention to tire conditions while driving, as small cracks on the sidewalls are often signs of aging. Rubber materials deteriorate over time due to external factors, particularly when exposed to high temperatures, ozone, or UV rays. Long-term underinflation increases the risk of sidewall deformation, leading to fatigue cracks; improper parking, such as on uneven surfaces or near chemicals, exacerbates the issue. The safety risk is significant—crack depth affects load-bearing capacity and may cause blowouts, especially dangerous at high speeds. I recommend a monthly visual inspection, including running your hand along the sidewalls to check for small raised cracks. Address issues promptly; don't underestimate them. Consult a professional shop to assess whether tire replacement is necessary. Developing good habits can prevent accidents, such as checking tire conditions during car washes.
Small cracks on the sidewall of tires are usually attributed to rubber aging and external damage. Natural aging over time is the primary cause, as the rubber oxidizes and becomes brittle in the air; direct sunlight can accelerate the formation of micro-cracks. Additionally, factors like frequently low tire pressure or heavy vehicle loads can cause uneven pressure on the sidewalls during rolling, leading to cracks. Environmental factors also play a significant role, such as exposure to rainwater or chemical erosion from the air. I make it a habit to visually inspect my tires regularly—superficial cracks may be temporarily safe, but deeper ones require replacement. To prevent damage, maintain standard tire pressure, park in shaded areas, and avoid sudden braking to reduce sidewall stress. Using protective treatments can also help extend tire lifespan.
