Causes and How to Avoid Cracked Tire Surfaces
As the only car component that is in direct contact with the road, tires are the main thing that deserves attention. Often this part experiences cracks after a long time of use. However, the surface of a tire with fine cracks is still safe for driving as long as it doesn't damage the threads inside. It's just that his appearance becomes less attractive.
Actually, what causes car tires to crack? How do you avoid it? Check out the review below!
Possible causes of cracked tires
The causes of cracked tires can vary. There are natural factors such as weather, and some are caused by history and how to care for tires. The following are causes that might cause cracked tire surfaces.
1. Weather factors
A cracked tire could be due to changing weather factors. Basically, cracking due to weather factors, for example hot or humid weather, is not a big problem. The tire surface is likened to human epidermis. If the epidermis is scratched or peels, it does not necessarily mean the skin is injured. Just as the surface of a tire is cracked, it does not necessarily mean that the inner structure is damaged.
Tires that are cracked due to weather factors should not be patched because it will actually damage the tire. Usually, a tire patch will puncture the tire. This can cause the thread structure inside the tire to break and the inner protector to become weak. Drivemates don't need to worry too much because a crack of 1 mm on the surface is still safe, unless there is a tear or factory production error.
2. Inappropriate air pressure
Furthermore, cracked tires can also be triggered by inappropriate air pressure. The air pressure for tires must be just right, no more and no less. If the pressure is not appropriate, whether it is too much or not enough, the impact will cause the tire to crack quickly. Therefore, it is important for Drivemate to always ensure that the air pressure in the tires is appropriate.
3. Carrying excess load
Overloading can also have an impact on tires, causing them to crack quickly. When a car bears a load that is heavier than its capacity, the tires will automatically be burdened. In more severe cases, this condition can cause the tire to burst. Therefore, avoid carrying excessive loads. Make sure that the load carried is in accordance with the load index of the tire because if it is overloaded it can endanger the rider.
4. Exposed to certain chemical fluids
If Drivemate is someone who likes to shine tires, you should pay attention to the chemicals contained in the polish used. Dull colors on tires really ruin their appearance, and by polishing them, the color of the tires will look good again. However, this habit of shining tires can cause cracks on the tire surface.
Chemicals in tire polish contain substances that can make tires harden, especially silicone-based polish. Silicone-based polish will chemically interact with the compound and attract wax content in the tire. This wag functions to prevent cracks in the tires. However, as a result of reacting with the silicone, the wag evaporates so that the tire becomes easily cracked.
If you want to shine tires, you should use water-based polish. This polish is water-based so it is safer for Drivemate car tires. However, you need to remember that it is best to avoid shining tires unless there is an urgent matter, for example for certain purposes. Just clean the tires by washing them with water so they don't crack easily.
How to avoid cracked tire surfaces
To avoid cracking of the tire surface, there are several methods that Drivemate can apply. First, make sure the air pressure in the tires is appropriate. Second, avoid carrying excessive loads. Know the load capacity that can be carried so that you can estimate the load that will be carried.
Third, and what is important, Drivermate should diligently clean the tires from dirt between the grooves and the tire walls. As a component that comes into direct contact with the road, foreign material from the road can easily stick to the tire. Therefore, wash your tires regularly with water.
Brush the surface so that all the dirt that sticks to it can be removed, while also cleaning it from pebbles or small nails. After the dirt is completely removed, rinse the tire surface with clean water. Wash like this regularly so that the tires remain in good condition, clean and safe from cracks.
Cracked tire surfaces on cars are a normal thing and actually you don't need to be too careful. Drivemate can still drive the car even if the tire is cracked. However, if your driving activities are disturbed by this, there is no harm in taking immediate action for driving safety and comfort. Also do the methods above to prevent cracked tires, OK!