What Causes Tire Cracking?

[OWalter]

Tire cracking is primarily caused by external damage-induced cracking and aging-related cracking. Here are the specific details: 1. External damage-induced cracking: This type of cracking typically occurs in irregular locations, shapes, and sizes, resulting from collisions, compressions, or scrapes with foreign objects while driving. Some cracks only affect the rubber surface, while others may damage the tire's carcass cords, with severe cases leading to sudden tire deflation. Generally, minor surface cracks that only affect the rubber do not impact tire safety and can continue to be used. However, if the cracks penetrate deep into the carcass cords or cause cord damage, they pose a safety hazard and must be replaced as soon as possible. 2. Aging-related cracking: This type of cracking usually occurs in the later stages of tire usage, commonly seen on the tire shoulders or lower sidewalls, and sometimes at the base of tread grooves. It is a natural change in the tire rubber due to long-term flexing and heat generation. Prolonged driving with low tire pressure can accelerate this process, but it typically does not affect the tire's service life or safety performance, and early replacement is generally unnecessary.