What kind of tire cracks require replacement?
3 Answers
Cracks that are too long or deep, reaching the standard depth of the tire tread (1.6 mm), require replacement. Below are specific details about tire replacement: 1. The normal lifespan of a tire is generally five years. After about three years of use, small cracks may appear, which are normal signs of aging, cracking, or wear. These may not require immediate replacement but should be regularly inspected. 2. If cracks appear on the tire sidewall, it is necessary to promptly visit a shop for inspection and replace the tire if needed. The sidewall is the most vulnerable part of the tire, and continued driving may lead to a blowout. 3. If the cracks are excessively long or deep, reaching the standard tread depth of 1.6 mm, replacement is required. 4. Additionally, if bulges appear on the tire, replacement is necessary. Bulges are a common issue with tires, usually caused by impacts that break the internal metal wires. Driving at high speeds or over long distances with bulges significantly increases the risk of a blowout and potential accidents, so drivers should be cautious.
The issue of cracks on tires is indeed a safety concern that must be taken seriously. I've seen many cases where deep cracks on the sidewalls of tires absolutely warrant replacement, as these areas bear significant pressure and are prone to blowouts. Similarly, if cracks on the tread reveal the inner layers, it's equally dangerous. Older tires naturally develop more fine surface cracks, but the depth should be checked—typically, anything over two millimeters should raise concern. Regularly squatting down to inspect tire condition is basic maintenance; don't overlook it to save money. The risk of tire failure at high speeds is extremely high, so it's advisable to have them professionally checked at regular intervals. Safety always comes first.
I remember last time I noticed fine cracks on the sidewall of my tire but didn't pay attention. Later when driving on the highway, the car shook violently. Fortunately, I sent it for repair in time and found the cracks had deepened. Generally, tire cracks can be divided into several types. If there are large radial cracks on the sidewall, the tire must be replaced immediately. Small cracks on the tread might last a while longer, but you need to monitor their progression. It's best to feel the depth and texture changes with your hand - if it feels uneven, it may need attention. Don't wait until something bad happens to regret it. Maintaining tires is actually quite simple - regular cleaning to keep them tidy can significantly slow down aging.
