Age and Natural Degradation
One of the primary causes of sidewall cracks is the age of the tyre. As tyres get older, the rubber compounds break down through a process known as oxidation. This natural ageing makes the rubber less flexible and more prone to cracking. Even if a tyre hasn’t been used much, it can still develop dangerous cracks over time. These age-related cracks are particularly insidious as they may not be immediately visible but can lead to sudden tyre failure.
Exposure to UV Rays and Ozone
Prolonged exposure to sunlight and ozone significantly accelerates the breakdown of rubber compounds in tyres. Ultraviolet (UV) rays cause the rubber to dry out and become brittle, leading to cracks in the sidewall. Similarly, ozone in the air, especially prevalent in urban areas, causes rubber to deteriorate faster. These environmental factors create cracks that may seem superficial but can quickly develop into serious structural weaknesses.
Improper Tyre Inflation
Maintaining proper tyre pressure is critical in preventing sidewall cracks. Underinflated tyres flex more than they should, putting excessive stress on the sidewalls. This constant flexing leads to cracks that compromise the tyre’s structure. Overinflated tyres are equally dangerous, as they become more susceptible to damage from road hazards, potentially causing immediate and severe sidewall damage.
Harsh Driving Conditions
The conditions in which you drive significantly impact tyre health. Frequent driving on rough roads, over potholes, or hitting curbs causes physical damage to the tyre sidewalls. This damage might start as minor cracks but can rapidly develop into severe structural issues. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, stress the rubber and lead to cracking, creating weak points in the tyre that can fail without warning.
Chemical Exposure
Exposure to certain chemicals degrades tyre rubber and causes cracking. This includes petroleum-based products, cleaning agents, and even some tyre shine products. While these products might enhance appearance, they can cause long-term damage if used excessively or improperly. Any crack caused by chemical exposure, no matter how small, should be treated as a serious safety issue.
Manufacturing Defects
Although rare, manufacturing defects can sometimes cause sidewall cracks. These defects might not be apparent when the tyre is new but can manifest as dangerous cracks over time. Any crack in a relatively new tyre should be immediately inspected by a professional, as it could indicate a severe manufacturing flaw that poses a significant safety risk.
Infrequent Use
Surprisingly, not using your vehicle enough can lead to dangerous sidewall cracks. When a car sits for extended periods, the weight of the vehicle puts constant pressure on the same part of the tyre, reducing how long tyres last. This can cause the rubber to deform and crack over time, creating weak points that can fail suddenly when the vehicle is put back into use.
Arrange Cracked Tyre Replacement
Every crack in a tyre sidewall, regardless of its apparent size or depth, must be treated as a serious safety hazard. These cracks compromise the structural integrity of your tyres, putting you, your passengers, and other road users at risk. Puncture repair is sometimes possible, even for tyres with nails in them, but cracked tyres are irreversible.
