The Ugly Truth of Tire Dry Rot and Ways to prevent it

 What is tire Dry Rot?

Tire dry rot also referred to as sidewall cracking is a common condition which can be visibly seen as hairline cracks along the sidewalls and tread of tires.  Dry rot can cause tires to lose air pressure quickly. The small cracks can open suddenly and with no warning, causing a tire blowout. Sidewall cracks may also cause a rip in the sidewall. Sometimes these rips separate the tire from the rim. The colorations along these rubber cracks fade from black to dull gray.

Generally, dry rot can occur when a vehicle is left sitting idle for an extended period of time without it being driven, as well as being left for vehicles exposed to direct contact of the sun’s UV rays. Tire makers put a waxy, protective coating on tires designed to help protect the rubber from the process of oxidation. Unfortunately, if tires just sit, they begin to break down more quickly. This happens because tires that are regularly used have the protectants inside the tire slowly squeezed out onto the surface where they do their work. No rolling, no squeezing, no working can and possible will equal dry rot! In hot, humid, and wet climate states like Florida, Arizona, Texas your vehicle will battle harsh environmental conditions nearly daily, as a result your tires may not last quite as long as someone’s tires in a milder climate.

Ways to Prevent Dry Ro
     Know the age of your tire

All tires have a series of numbers and letters on the sidewall, beginning with DOT. This Department Of Transportation or DOT code determines the age of the tire. The last four digits show the week and year the tire was manufactured. For example, 2113 which tell us this tire was built in the 21st week of 2013. When replacing your tires, check the DOT date codes. Any tire already more than a year old may not be a wise investment. Tires age as we have learned whether used or not and may deteriorate even greater when not being used.

          

     Purchase new, high-quality tires

Used tires are not subject to the same government regulations as new tires. Make sure to pay attention and take note.  Where and in what condition are the tires being stored? If outside, then the tires are exposed to harsh environmental elements and the life of the tire has been shortened due to the environmental tear. While you may be receiving a cheaper price on purchasing a used tire, in the end are you truly getting a long term valuable investment?

    Regular Tire Inspections

Have your tires inspected regularly with your trusted local tire technician/factory-certified service consultants. With the proper qualified service professionals, you will be  will alerted and informed of  the slightest signs of dry rot and can be advise whether It being significant to repair or replace  the tire(s).

        Tips To Remember

* When purchasing a used car, new/used tires determine the age of the tires. Find the age with the DOT code.

* Buy yourself a tire gauge – The loss of air pressure is an indicator of dry rot.

* Replace tires every 6-10years. Possibly sooner in hot, humid, wet climates.

* Maintain proper tire pressure, check tire wear, using them on a regular basis, and protecting them as much as possible from environmental elements.

Reminder with a passing glance, our tires may look okay. However, serious problems may be lurking, like tire dry rot! So, take an in-depth look, keeping the health of your vehicle at is most optimal.

 

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