Is a little cracking on tires OK?

Is a little cracking on tires OK?

When sidewall cracks are minor and superficial, it may be safe to continue driving on the tires. This cracking can wear down the tire fast, and a small number of visible cracks can quickly lead to several major cracks that put your tire at serious risk of a sidewall blowout.

When should a cracked tire be replaced?

Typically, most tire manufacturers recommend tire replacements at 5 or 6 years with an absolute replacement timeline of 10 years regardless of tire condition or tread depth. Your tires have a date stamp on the sidewall that indicates the week and year the tire was manufactured.

What causes cracks in tires?

One of the leading causes of tire failure is driving with underinflated tires. When tires are underinflated, there is increased wear on the tire tread, which generates excessive heat, and can result in severe cracking, component separation or a tire failure.

What causes tires to crack in the tread?

Tires with dry rot are much more likely to develop leaks, holes, and blow outs. In extreme cases, the tread may separate from the rest of the tire entirely. What Does Dry Rot Look Like? Tire dry rot is also known as sidewall cracking.

How long can you drive on a torn tire?

If the tire has a hole in the sidewall, in some cases you can still drive for limited periods, but it should be done slowly as handling and even braking will be compromised. Most manufacturers don’t recommend driving more than 25 to 75 miles with a damaged run-flat tire.

How do I stop my tires from cracking?

How to Prevent Tires From Weather Cracking

1. Clean tires with mild soap and water.
2. Inflate the tires according to the manufacturer’s recommendations when in use and in storage.
3. Store the vehicle on surfaces, such as cement, that are free of petroleum.
4. Drive the vehicle every couple of months.

Can cracked tires pop?

Tire cracking or tire dry rot can be due to old age. As the tire ages, the rubber starts to split apart which makes your tire less durable and more prone to going flat or having a tire blow out. Also, under inflated tires can cause cracking, so be sure to keep your tires aired up.

Can I drive on a split tire?

If the tire has a tread defect, a bump will form in the tread area, and will expand until the separation occurs. When defects appear, the driver should replace the tire immediately. Driving on tires with defects can put the driver, passengers and other drivers at risk.