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 increased temperature of the tire raises the internal tire pressure, making a blowout highly likely. If the sidewall cracks are minor, driving in urban areas should generally be safe, but it is recommended to replace the tire if possible. Below is relevant information: 1. Causes of 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, the high-pressure air inside, combined with temperature fluctuations and sunlight exposure, leads to the degradation of the tire rubber from the inside out. Factors such as oxygen, heat, and rolling over thousands of kilometers contribute to this natural aging process over time. 2. Timeframe for crack formation: Generally, tires begin to show signs of aging after about 3 years of use, with small cracks appearing on the sidewalls, tread, or drainage grooves. Over time, or if the tire is corroded, these cracks will gradually deepen. The drainage grooves and sidewalls are particularly vulnerable, and after 5 years, the tire is usually severely aged, posing a high risk of blowouts and significant safety hazards.
