Are tires with cracked sidewalls safe?

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.

Are cracks on side of tires bad?

Cracked tires are no good-and, often, you’ll notice sidewall cracks in your tires first. Sidewall cracking is dangerous because it reduces a driver’s ability to handle dramatic increases in load when taking corners and increases the possibility of a tire blowout.

Are small cracks in tire sidewall bad?

These small cracks typically develop in the sidewalls or at the base of the tread grooves. Depending on their severity, they may be cosmetic in nature if they don’t extend past the rubber’s outer surface, or may be a reason to replace the tire if they reach deep into the rubber.

What do tire cracks 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.

Should you replace tires that are cracking?

You should replace tires when cracking is serious. If it’s found throughout the tire’s surface and extends deep into the surface, it’s a sign that the compound isn’t functioning as it should, and replacing them is necessary for your safety.

How long will weather cracked tires last?

Oils and chemicals in the rubber compound start to evaporate or break down because of UV exposure. The rubber loses its flexibility and begins to crack at the surface, and the structure becomes more and more brittle (think of a really old rubber band), leading to sidewall damage and eventual failure.

Does slime work on sidewalls?

Unfortunately, there are a few instances when you shouldn’t use tire sealant: Keep it to tires! Sidewall gashes: Slime is designed to only repair punctures in the tread area of the tire. Unfortunately, tire sealants will not repair a slash on your sidewall.

What cracked tyres mean?

Age. As your tyres get older, the polymers naturally weaken and begin to break down. This causes your tyres to harden and become brittle – and this loss of elasticity can mean the tyres crack. The chemical that prevents the tyre from drying out and cracking is released when the tyre is moving.