Few topics concern car owners as much as the safety of their tires. After all, they are the only point of contact between the vehicle and the road. But what if you suddenly discover small cracks in your tires? Are “tire cracks” a cause for panic or harmless cosmetic defects? In this article, we get to the bottom of the matter and explain what really matters.
Have you ever noticed small cracks in the sidewall of your tires? 
Tire cracks on the sidewall Before you panic, take a deep breath. Not every crack immediately means the end for the tire.
What are tire cracks and how do they develop?
Tire cracks are small, fine fissures that can appear in the tread or on the sidewalls of tires. They are caused by various factors, such as:
- Aging: Tires age even when they are used little. UV radiation from the sun, ozone, and temperature fluctuations attack the rubber and make it brittle.
- Overloading: If the tire is constantly loaded beyond the permissible total weight, this can also lead to cracks.
- Incorrect tire pressure: Both too high and too low tire pressure can shorten the life of the tire and promote cracks.
- External influences: Curbs, sharp objects, or chemicals can also damage the tire.
When are tire cracks dangerous?
Whether tire cracks are dangerous depends on their depth, location, and number. Small, superficial cracks in the tread are usually harmless and do not pose a safety risk. The situation is different if the cracks are deep, several cracks have already formed, or the carcass (the supporting structure of the tire) is damaged. In this case, the stability of the tire is no longer guaranteed, and there is an acute risk of tire blowouts.
“A tire with deep cracks is like a house with cracks in the foundation,” explains tire expert Dr. Hans Müller. “Sooner or later, the structure will give way and collapse – or in the case of the tire, it will blow out.”
What to do about tire cracks?
If you discover cracks on your tires, you should have them checked by a professional. They can assess whether the cracks are merely a cosmetic problem or a safety risk. In some cases, it is sufficient to replace the affected tire. However, if the cracks are too deep or too numerous, the entire set of tires must be replaced.
Preventing tire cracks – here’s how!
To prevent tire cracks, you should observe the following tips:
- Check tire pressure regularly: Check the tire pressure at least every two weeks and adjust it if necessary.
- Store tires correctly: Store your tires in a dark, cool, and dry place. Avoid direct sunlight and contact with chemicals. You can find more information on tire changing and tire storage in our article about Tire Change Memmingen.
- Avoid overloading: Observe the permissible total weight of your vehicle and avoid overloading the tires.
- Drive carefully: Avoid driving over curbs or other obstacles at high speed.
Conclusion: Check tires regularly and stay safe on the road
Tire cracks are a serious issue that can affect road safety. However, through regular checks, proper care, and careful driving, you can help extend the life of your tires and minimize the risk of tire cracks. When in doubt, you should always consult a professional. This way, you are on the safe side and can enjoy your journey in a relaxed manner.
More interesting topics about tires:
- How much tread depth is still allowed? Find out in our article “How much tire tread depth“.
- You want to sell your old tires? Learn how in our post “Sell used winter tires with rims“.
- Looking for cheap used tires? We’ll show you where to buy used tires near you.
- Practical accessories for tire storage: Discover our BMW tire bags.
Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions about tires or need help choosing tires. Our experts will be happy to help you!
