I have a 2003 Honda Accord with about 42,000 miles on Michelin tires (original, came with the car). The car is parked on the drive-way everyday in the sun (Los Angeles). I drive it maybe about ten miles a day right now on local streets, maybe a trip on the freeway here and there...
I started noticing some cracking on the sidewall on the back-right tire. I realize that it's probably time for me to get a new set of times at around 50,000 miles but I don't have the money to spend right now. (Unless I really have to and have no other choice.) and would prefer to ride it out until I really have to change.
How can one tell if the cracks are merely cosmetic in nature or something more serious (actual damage to the rubber)? Or is this just something that I have to take to a tire specialist, who I'm guessing will just tell me to get new tires ASAP.
Thanks for your help!Car tire sidewall cracking?Age related cracking in tire rubber is quite normal and usually only cosmetic. Depending on its severity you may not need to do anything in the short term. If you have concerns take it to a good tire shop and have someone take a look at them.Car tire sidewall cracking?give the tires some tire shine
gives it moisture ( to help prevent cracking)
and makes em look newCar tire sidewall cracking?those tires are weather cracked and getting weak, I would replace them.Car tire sidewall cracking?usually when the sides crack, its from the rubber drying out too much (a lot of sun exposure) and yes it is a real problem. It weekens the tire and in the heat or cold could blow out. If it were a new or newer tire I'd say it was a bad tire and to go back to place of purchase and have them replace it, usually free of charge.Car tire sidewall cracking?id get new tires asap. once they start cracking they are very vulnerable to blowouts which can be catastrophic especially on the highway or on a curvy road. depending on the amount of cracks the tire may rupture after hitting a bump of pot hole. its like if you find a rubber-band that's got cracks all over it, if you stretch it it will snap, same with your tires. the sie wall is subject to extreme amounts of pressure and other forces that are hazardous to a normal tire with out a lot of wear.Car tire sidewall cracking?It's the age of the tires combined with Ozone. The sun beats the heck out rubber. I would say that as long as they are minor and the tires are holding air, you're alright. When you get new tires, first check for the date the manufacturer made the tire. Some tires sit on the shelf for a long time and you want to get the freshest tire possible. If for example you buy a new tire, but it has been sitting on the shelf for two years, then you are putting on a two year old tire. Second, get a car cover. It will help with the whole car as well as shading the tires.
