Cracks in tire tread

B

BluBrett

New member
I bought 2 used wheels + tires for my Legend. The tires have perfect sidewalls, tread that looks like it hasn't been used, but there are small cracks all over the tread. I can't even come close to seeing the belts anywhere, but I'm wondering if tires are typically safe with these cracks that I assume are due to age and constant sun exposure, or if I should put new tires on ASAP? If I wait, it will only be for about 2 months/2-3000 miles.



Here's a pic of one of the tires:



f35bf290.jpg




Wheels/tires obviously weren't abused



5ee719b8.jpg
 
Those look pretty rough, but the only sure way is to use the date code on the tire and figure it out from there. Chances are you will be fine, but it all depends on the circumstances and how you drive. Would I put my family in that car for a trip to the mountains, no, but I'd probably drive on them in fair weather.
 
Looks like dry rot. I had a set of tires that looked very similar, hit a speed bump a little too hard and one of the sidewalls split! But on mine the cracks went all the way up the sidewall. It kind of looks like the cracks on yours go down in the spaces between the tread so very good chance they are not safe. If in doubt about the safety of your tires, don't run them, I mean they are what holds you to the road.
 
Yup!

Not worth what "may/can" happen.

One does not really need some "big brand" tire, one's that are "promoted" on TV shows, etc.

As long as they meet DOT specs, (most cost half of what the name brands cost), they are safe, just that the "kids" want some "brand name" seen on your vehicles.

Sort of like clothing, hell, they are not near as safety controled as your tires.

Grumpy
 
Ron Ketcham said:
Yup!

Not worth what "may/can" happen.

One does not really need some "big brand" tire, one's that are "promoted" on TV shows, etc.

As long as they meet DOT specs, (most cost half of what the name brands cost), they are safe, just that the "kids" want some "brand name" seen on your vehicles.

Sort of like clothing, hell, they are not near as safety controled as your tires.

Grumpy
Click to expand...



I would have to Half disagree on that one Grumpy, Some "Brand Name" manufacturers actually produce a superior rubber compound that wears better Holds up longer. In my experience and when I am planing to keep a car for years and can afford it I would go with Bridgestone or Dunlop, while their are many Unknown small brands that produce a good tire it is hard to find. Most Mass outlet store Tires you see "On Sale" at Sears,Wal Mart etc are at that price for a reason, and mostly wear faster as well due to the rubber compound they use to keep cost down even though they are DOT approved.



I would read the DOT Date code on the Side of the Tire, usually a Small Oval with numbers stamped HOW TO >> Tire Tech Information - Determining the Age of a Tire . Old rubber tends to be hard and typically while it looks great will usually blow out on you. I have seen Used Tires that look brand new and New tires that are old stock, and they are both not safe once the Rubber is old. If its just a DD that sees limited driving at 25+mph its not a big deal because its more controlled in case of an accident, but I would not trust Old tires while doing highway speeds or traveling a good distance. Not only do you have a chance of causing an accident but also injuring others.
 
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