Why are the tires of a newly purchased car slightly yellow?
2 Answers
Newly purchased car tires may appear slightly yellow due to the use of inferior tire wax. Here are other reasons for tire yellowing: 1. Brake pad metal powder rust: Brake pads contain iron, which wears down and produces powder during braking. When this powder mixes with water, it forms rust water that flows to the tire sidewalls. Over time, the sidewalls turn yellow. 2. Dust traces: If tires frequently enter and exit construction sites, the sidewalls can easily turn yellow. Without regular vehicle cleaning, a yellowish tint from dirt can seep into the tire rubber, making it difficult to clean, which is a normal yellowing condition. 3. Tire wax oxidation yellowing: New tires are often coated with a layer of tire wax. For vehicles frequently parked outdoors, the sidewalls may yellow as the tire wax oxidizes and turns yellow in high-temperature outdoor environments. 4. Premature oxidation of tire protectants: Yellowing due to premature oxidation of tire protectants is an abnormal phenomenon. Generally, when tires are not cleaned properly before applying protectants, it accelerates the oxidation of the protectants, leading to yellowing.
I recently bought a new car, and the tires have turned slightly yellow, which is usually caused by rubber oxidation. New car tires go through prolonged storage and transportation from production to sale, being exposed to air and UV rays, allowing oxygen molecules to penetrate the surface and cause discoloration, similar to the natural aging process. It doesn't harm the tire's performance—tread depth and hardness are the key indicators. As long as there are no cracks or softening, driving is completely safe. I recommend regularly scrubbing the tires with a neutral cleaner, avoiding strong chemicals like alkaline cleaners, and parking in the shade to slow oxidation. In the long run, this slight yellowing is normal; paying attention to tire pressure balance is more important to ensure even wear and extend lifespan.
