Why are my tyres cracking?
I purchased a new set of tyres in October 2019 for my Vauxhall Vectra. I've done 1500 careful miles since then, during which I put 45PSI in them (50PSI is the max) and moved them on the drive once a week. Now they are cracking in the grooves on all the tyres.
I had a problem with cracking with other premium tyres at four years and around 9000 miles but this is ridiculous. I'm guessing my low mileage doesn't help.
After consulting both manufacturer and seller I am going to have to go through the painful process of getting them returned under warranty which of course involves me buying four new tyres, but what can I buy that isn't going to crack prematurely? Are there any brands/tyres less prone to cracking with low mileage?
I had a problem with cracking with other premium tyres at four years and around 9000 miles but this is ridiculous. I'm guessing my low mileage doesn't help.
After consulting both manufacturer and seller I am going to have to go through the painful process of getting them returned under warranty which of course involves me buying four new tyres, but what can I buy that isn't going to crack prematurely? Are there any brands/tyres less prone to cracking with low mileage?
Asked on 22 July 2021 by Eddie
Answered by
Dan Powell
I think the problem is caused by the way the car is stored rather than the actual tyres. Cracking is usually caused by the fact the car is left standing outside for long periods. UV light, for example, can result in the polymers in the rubber drying up and cracking. It's a similar story with extreme heat and cold.
Your mileage since 2019 suggests the car is used for less than 70 miles a month, which means your car is left for very long periods outside in the elements. I'm not sure any brand of tyre would not crack with such low mileage. It may be better to rent a garage or buy a good quality car cover.
Your mileage since 2019 suggests the car is used for less than 70 miles a month, which means your car is left for very long periods outside in the elements. I'm not sure any brand of tyre would not crack with such low mileage. It may be better to rent a garage or buy a good quality car cover.
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wheels and tyres
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