Will Sidewall Cracks Cause a Tire Blowout?
1 Answers
When there are cracks on the tire sidewall and the cracks are relatively deep, a blowout may occur, especially during long-distance or high-speed driving. This is because the tire temperature rises, increasing the internal tire pressure, which can easily lead to a blowout. If the sidewall cracks are minor, driving in urban areas should generally be fine, but it is recommended to replace the tire if possible. Below is relevant information about tire cracks: Reasons for cracks: Cracks in the tire grooves are caused by natural aging of the tire. Since tires are made of rubber and operate in harsh conditions, high-pressure air inside the tire, combined with temperature fluctuations and sunlight exposure, can cause the rubber to degrade from the inside out. Factors such as oxygen, heat, and rolling over thousands of kilometers contribute to this natural aging process over time. Timeframe for crack formation: Generally, tires begin to show signs of aging after about 3 years of use, with small, fine cracks appearing on the sidewalls, tread, or drainage grooves. Over time or due to corrosion, these cracks may deepen. The drainage grooves and sidewalls are particularly vulnerable, and after 5 years, tires are often severely aged, making them highly prone to blowouts and posing significant safety risks.
