What kind of tire cracks require replacement?
4 Answers
Tire cracks that require replacement include the following situations: 1. Crack length less than 6mm: If a tire has cracks, the depth of the cracks should be checked. Cracks shorter than 6mm can be repaired at a maintenance shop. Otherwise, the tire needs to be replaced. If the repaired tire is on the front, it is recommended to swap it with an unrepaired rear tire to minimize the risk of a blowout. 2. Numerous small cracks: If the tire shows signs of aging, it should be replaced promptly. The typical sign of aging is the presence of numerous small cracks at the bottom of the tread grooves or on the tire sidewalls, indicating that the aging is about to affect the tire body.
When it comes to tire cracks, I believe the ones that require immediate replacement are mainly those on the sidewalls. As you all know, the sidewall is the weakest part of a tire. Once cracks appear, even if they are tiny, they can quickly expand and lead to a blowout, especially when driving on highways, which is extremely dangerous. When I help friends inspect their cars, I often see cracks caused by tire aging or insufficient tire pressure—if the tire is over six years old or has fine cracks on the surface, it means the rubber has aged and can no longer withstand road impacts. Cracks on the tread are equally dangerous. If the cracks are deep enough to expose the inner cord layers, you must replace the tire immediately. I recommend checking the tread and sidewalls visually or by touch every time you wash your car. If you find any serious damage, take it to a professional shop right away—don’t skimp on this expense, as safety is the top priority. Remember, small cracks left untreated can become major hazards. The cost of repairing a single blowout is much higher than buying a new tire, and when it comes to safety, there’s no room for carelessness.
From a safety perspective, I believe sidewall cracks are the most critical reason to replace tires, as they directly affect driving stability. With decades of driving experience, I've encountered issues caused by aging tire cracks—deep cracks or crazing on the sidewalls can easily lead to loss of control during turns. If tread cracks are deep enough to insert a coin, that's also a dangerous warning. Don't forget to check the tire's production date; be alert if it's over 6 years old, as UV rays degrade rubber. A blowout on the highway could have unimaginable consequences. That's why I recommend car owners regularly inspect their tires with a flashlight, paying special attention to inner and outer sidewall cracks. Don't delay if you spot problems—head straight to a 4S shop or reputable service center for replacement. After all, with family in the car, safety should never be compromised.
From an economic perspective, I believe deep sidewall cracks must be replaced, otherwise it will cost more in car repairs. I often encounter friends who try to save money by not replacing old tires, only to end up with a flat tire and having to pay for roadside assistance and vehicle damage. Tire cracks vary in severity: small tread cracks are fine, but deep sidewall cracks can deteriorate quickly. Replacing a new tire might only cost a few hundred dollars, whereas waiting for it to blow out and repairing the chassis would be more expensive. During inspection, insert a coin into the crack; if it goes deeper than half a centimeter, it's time to replace it. Regular maintenance can save money, such as kicking the tires during car washes to check for excessive aging cracks. Replace tires when they reach the end of their lifespan to avoid costly insurance claims.
