Introduction
You might assume that if your car is parked then your tyres are in “pause too”.
It may sound surprising, but tyres do not just wear with distance; they also wear with time. So, whether you are a daily commuter or barely at all, your tyre rubber will age.
Sunlight, oxygen, temperature changes, and even long periods of inactivity slowly break down the tyre compound that keep them flexible and safe. Over time the naturally ageing process take a toll on your tyres and put your life at risk long before the tread actually wears out.
Thus, in this blog we will understand why does tyre aware even if they are not use. Let’s start!
How Do Your Car Tyres Age?
Tyres are made of different rubber compounds, textile cords, and steel belts, which together form a complex structure. Despite the material’s outstanding durability, environmental variables and usage habits might cause it to deteriorate over time.
Most importantly, this process is not visible, making it more critical for you to know how the tyres age:
1. Oxidation
When the rubber compounds in your car tyre react with the oxygen in the air, a chemical reaction called oxidation occurs. This reaction causes the tyre’s rubber to become hard, lose elasticity, become prone to cracking, and become more brittle.
If you want to slow this process, you must store your vehicle’s tires in a dry and cool place away from sources of ozone, such as electric motors, and direct sunlight.
You can also use a tyre protectant containing UV inhibitors to create a barrier against oxygen exposure.
2. UV Exposure
The chemical bonds in the rubber are broken by the ultraviolet rays in the sun, resulting in sidewall cracking and overall weakening of the tyre structure. That is why, when you leave tyres exposed to the sun for too long, they show premature signs of ageing.
You can significantly reduce UV damage by parking your car in the garage or covering the tyres when parked outside for long periods. Additionally, you can even apply a UV protective coating for an extra layer of defence on the tyre’s sidewalls.
3. Heat
Whether you drive at high speeds, drive underinflated, or drive in hot weather, high temperatures can accelerate chemical reactions and degrade rubber. Internal damage to the tyre structure can also happen due to excessive heat, making it dangerous and prone to blowouts.
Hence, avoid overloading your car as it can also generate more heat. Similarly, ensure tyres are properly inflated as underinflated ones run much hotter. Moreover, you should store tyres in a climate-controlled area, particularly during the hot months in Abu Dhabi, to prevent heat-related degradation.
4. Incorrect Storage
Another way you are unknowingly speeding up the tyres’ aging is by improperly storing them. Factors, such as exposure to rain, sunlight, and snow, storing them next to solvents or chemicals, or stacking them incorrectly, can degrade the rubber.
The ideal way to store them is in a cool, dark, dry location, away from ozone sources and direct sunlight. Additionally, always store tyres upright or lay them flat; do not hang them, as this can cause sidewall stress.
Also, you should clean them before storing and keep them in tyre bags to protect them from environmental factors.
Is There An Age Limit For Tyres?
You must change the tyres once every 10 years, regardless of how they appear, or the mileage, or any visible wear. However, in general, most tyres do need replacement even before they turn 10.
That is why you must know and closely check tyre conditions. Always check your tire’s condition and inflation pressure. If you notice any performance changes or visible damage, such as increased air loss, cracking, or increased vibration or noise, get your tyres checked at a tyre shop Abu Dhabi.
Apart from regularly inspecting the tyres, always ensure they are checked by a professional at least once a year. They can let you know if the tyres are in the best driving conditions.
In addition, follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation for tyre replacement.
Why You Should Never Ignore Old Tyres?
Here are some reasons you should never ignore old, ageing tyres and purchase tyre online for safety purposes.
- Safety risks – If your car tire is aged, it is more likely to suddenly fall, especially in hot weather, or when driving at high speed. You can lose control of the vehicle in case of a blowout.
- Reduced performance – Hardened and old rubber in your tyres won’t offer good grip off the road, particularly in cold temperatures and rain. It would also mean you would take longer to stop and reduce handling.
- Poor ride quality – A harsher, more uncomfortable ride results from tires losing their capacity to absorb vibrations and bumps over time.
- Hidden damage – Even if you do not notice any visible damage, the internal structure may degrade with time. This hidden damage, though not visible, can pose a safety hazard.
Conclusion
The right tyres are crucial not only for improving the driving experience but also for enhancing road safety. Hence, there is a need for proper tyre maintenance to extend the tyres’ lifespan.
However, do not forget to change the tyres when you notice visible signs of damage, or if they are more than 10 years old. If you are looking for new tires, you can contact TyresWorld.
They are the best tyre shop in Abu Dhabi, offering fantastic car tyres offer for every brand, make, or model. Contact them today, have your old tyres inspected by our professionals, find out whether they are safe for your next drive, and buy new ones!