Why Do Tires Get Hot?
2 Answers
Tire heating is primarily caused by factors such as high vehicle speed, greater weight, and the heat generated from braking. The friction produced when braking leads to an increase in tire temperature. During hot weather, it's advisable to stop the car to let it cool down after about two hours of continuous driving on the highway. It's crucial to avoid methods like splashing cold water on the tires, as this can cause cracks and shorten the tire's lifespan. After prolonged high-speed driving, it's normal for tires to heat up, resulting in a slight increase in temperature and internal tire pressure. As tires roll, they consume energy, part of which is absorbed by the tire and converted into heat. If this heat isn't dissipated in time, the tire temperature rises. Excessive temperature increases (exceeding 95°C) can lead to tire delamination and even tire blowouts.
Once during a long-distance drive, I noticed the tires felt unusually hot to the touch, and later identified the cause. High tire temperatures are primarily related to driving habits—sudden acceleration and hard braking increase tire friction, naturally generating more heat. Another factor is tire pressure; both underinflation and overinflation can lead to overheating, especially when driving on asphalt roads in summer, where road surface temperatures also contribute. Additionally, prolonged high-speed driving or overloading increases the load, accelerating heat buildup. It's worth noting that excessively hot tires are no small matter—they can increase the risk of blowouts and reduce handling performance, so extra caution is needed while driving. Regular tire pressure checks, maintaining recommended levels, driving smoothly, and taking breaks during long trips can all effectively prevent overheating.
