What are aged tires, and how do they relate to the sun and heat?

Euromaster warns of the common signs of this tire defect, such as the appearance of visible cracks, a stiffer structure, and unusual noises while driving

Tires are the only point of contact between the vehicle and the road, so keeping them in good condition is essential to ensuring safety while driving. In this context, the Euromaster, a vehicle maintenance specialist, draws attention to a common problem that, in turn, is relatively unknown to most drivers: crystallized/aged tires.

This phenomenon, which affects the elasticity of the tires and the rubber structure, it may go unnoticed, but it has severe consequences to the vehicle safety. According to Euromaster, the aged tires are those that have undergone a hardening process that leads to loss of its natural elasticity. This causes the rubber to become stiff and brittle, which negatively affects road grip and, consequently, driving safety. This hard and brittle appearance that is what gives rise to the withered/dried-up.

However, there are a number of factors that contribute to the crystallized tires and in that sense, the Euromaster points to three factors common issues that take on special importance during the summer.

1. Prolonged exposure to the sun, since the ultraviolet radiation from the sun's rays can alter the chemical composition of the rubber, weakening its structure.
2. Exposure to extreme weather conditions, as intense heat (and cold, to the same extent) contributes to the loss of elasticity in the tire's rubber.
3. Improper tire storage, since storing them in hot, humid places or exposing them to the elements for long periods of time can cause them to crystallize; therefore, they should be stored in cool, dry, dark places to prevent spoilage.

How can you tell if your tires are hardened?

It is essential recognize the signs or symptoms early on, which is why Euromaster recommends that drivers watch for these signs:

• Visible cracks: small cracks on the tire's surface, a clear sign of wear.
• Loss of elasticity: If your tires feel harder than usual and don't spring back easily, it's time to check them.
• Unusual noises while driving: Unusual noises, such as humming or squeaking, may indicate that the tires are in poor condition.

If you experience any of these symptoms, Euromaster recommends a visit to a workshop for a professional inspection.  Ignoring these symptoms can lead to serious road safety risks, since a frozen tire has reduced braking power and traction on the road, which increases the braking distance and, consequently, raises the likelihood of an accident.

In addition, the cracks in the structure and his hardening increase the likelihood of a high-speed blowout, while the lack of elasticity in the tire affects the vehicle stability, especially when turning or making sudden maneuvers.