Cracks are a sign that the rubber in your tires is starting to break down. This happens naturally due to exposure to UV light, oils, chemicals, and other elements that slowly break down compounds and reduce the rubber’s flexibility over time. As this flexibility declines, cracks develop.
Are cracks between tire tread unsafe?
Cracks in tires may seem like not a big deal, but they can be a major hazard to your safety. When people inspect tires, they often focus on tread depth and ignore other areas of concern, including cracking. Cracking can be just as large of a hazard as driving on tires without the recommended tread depth.
Why are Michelin tires cracking?
Underinflated tires are one of the most common tire failures. You know; underinflated tires lead to excessive heat and cracking in the tread surface. Consequently, tires get dry rot and other problems.
When should a cracked tire be replaced?
2. Damage – If the tires are damaged and cannot be repaired, obviously they need to be replaced. This is usually the case for blowouts, large punctures/holes, any damage close to the sidewall, or bubbles anywhere in the tire (see picture).
What causes tires to crack between the treads? – Related Questions
How do I stop my tires from cracking?
How to Prevent Aging and Cracked Tires
- If you can, park your car in a garage away from direct sunlight.
- Clean snow and mud off the tires after driving.
- Keep the tires inflated to reduce the strain placed on the tire.
- Don’t allow your tires to sit in standing water.
- Don’t let your vehicle sit in one place for too long.
How long can I drive on cracked tires?
The normal lifespan of a tire is five to seven years, but a severely cracked tire won’t make it that long. But there is no clear-cut way to tell how long a cracked tire will last. A cracked tire’s lifespan depends on the crack’s location and severity.
Are cracks in tires normal?
All tires will show tread groove and sidewall cracking over time, but with normal driving, most will wear out before tire-cracking, weather-cracking, or dry-rot become a problem.
Is tire cracking covered under warranty?
Tire manufacturers’ warranties typically cover cracking for a period of 4 years from the date the tire was purchased (receipt for the new tires or in-service date of the vehicle required) or four years from the date the tire was manufactured.
Is it safe to drive with a broken tire?
No. Do not drive on a flat tire. However, it may be necessary to travel a short distance on a flat tire when pulling over to the side of the road. But driving on a flat tire is a surefire way to put your passengers at risk and seriously damage your vehicle.
Is it safe to drive with a cracked alloy?
And even though they can look minor, cracked rims are a safety hazard to drivers and vehicle passengers. The most dangerous risk is that tire surrounding the damaged rim could have a complete blowout, rendering the car un-drivable.
How much tyre cracking is too much?
If there are cuts in excess of 25mm or 10% of the section width of the tyre, or if there are lumps, bulges or tears caused by separation or partial failure of the tyre structure your tyres could be considered illegal.
How long can a car sit before tires rot?
Dry rotting is more prevalent in tires that are stationary for a period of three months or more. This is because tires are kept moist by resins and oils within the rubber; these oils need downward pressure to be activated, and such pressure comes from coming into regular weighted contact with the road during driving.
How should tires be stored flat or upright?
Store unmounted tires stacked sidewall to sidewall; to prevent staining of white sidewall tires, store white sidewall to white sidewall or place individually in bags. Note: It’s also best to place the tires on top of a piece of wood, or other barrier rather than directly on the ground or concrete.
What can you put on tires to keep them from dry rotting?
The water-based tire protectant douses the sidewalls in moisture, protecting them against dry rot and giving the rubber a rich, waxy gleam. Be it a NASCAR, Arctic or commuter tire, everyone deserves the best in tire protection: 303 Automotive ProtectantOpens a new window.
What does dry rotted tires look like?
Whereas a healthy tire is smooth and crack-free, a dry rotted tire tends to resemble cracked leather or elephant skin. These cracks can be large and noticeable or small and veiny, depending on the severity of the dry rot. Discolored rubber is a clear indication that dry rot has progressed to a more advanced stage.
Is it OK to drive on dry rotted tires?
This can occur in vehicles that sit for a long time (during the pandemic for example), and it results in your tires prematurely wearing out and needing to be replaced. Tire dry rot weakens a tire’s structural integrity and is dangerous to drive on.
Can you reverse dry rot on tires?
Minor dry rot can be addressed by a professional using a tire sealant. Tires with advanced dry rot must be replaced. Dry rot allows air to escape the tire, making it difficult or even impossible to keep the tire properly inflated.
Will dry rotted tires explode?
When noticing dry rot early signs, the tires can still be saved. Yet, it can quickly become more serious. It can easily turn into the tire not being able to hold air pressure. It can cause air leaks, dry rot tire blowouts, or even tread separation.
How many years do Michelin tires last?
Ten years is a maximum
If the tires haven’t been replaced 10 years after their date of manufacture, as a precaution, Michelin recommends replacing them with new tires. Even if they appear to be in usable condition and have not worn down to the tread wear indicator.
Is Michelin still the best tire?
Michelin tires aren’t only good, but they’re excellent. They provide high-performance tires for every type of vehicle and every type of use. Coming in second from Bridgestone as the largest tire company in the world, Michelin tires are still one of the best tires out there.