What Causes Small Cracks on the Sidewalls of Car Tires?
2 Answers
Small cracks on the sidewalls of car tires are caused by: 1. Poor maintenance; 2. Driving on gravel roads or construction sites where hard objects come into contact with the tires, leading to damage of the inner layers under heavy pressure. The functions of tires include: 1. Transmitting driving force, braking force, and steering force to enable vehicle operation; 2. Supporting vehicle load; 3. Reducing and absorbing vibrations and impacts during driving to prevent severe vibrations from damaging car components. Tire maintenance methods include: 1. Regularly removing stones stuck in tire treads; 2. Minimizing exposure to direct sunlight; 3. Promptly checking tire pressure; 4. Paying attention to suspension maintenance; 5. Regularly inspecting front-wheel alignment; 6. Adopting careful driving habits by choosing smooth roads, avoiding objects that can puncture or scratch tires, and steering clear of chemical spills that may corrode tires.
I previously researched tire materials and found that the core issue behind small cracks appearing on the sidewalls is rubber aging. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays breaks down the molecular structure of rubber, turning the originally flexible material brittle. Additionally, extreme temperature fluctuations and high humidity environments accelerate this process—like excessive summer heat or prolonged winter freezing. Another common cause is insufficient pressure; underinflated tires cause the sidewalls to repeatedly flex during driving, creating micro-cracks. Road chemicals such as de-icing salt or gasoline residue can also erode the rubber surface. While these fine cracks may seem harmless, if they accumulate, they can develop into deep fissures leading to slow leaks or even blowouts. I recommend checking tire pressure every three months to maintain standard levels, parking in shaded areas and using sunshades to slow aging, and addressing issues before they become severe.
