The prime causes of dry rot in tires is lack of use and improper storage.
You have to admit that you’re going a bit stir crazy at your inability to go as many places as you’re used to doing. You understand the recommendation to stay put but it’s hard and frustrating to do.
What many people don’t realize is that simply staying put can also be hard on your car. Take your tires, for example. If you never move your car, they run the risk of getting a flat spot on the portion of the tire that’s always sitting on the pavement. They also run the risk of developing dry rot. In fact, as Angie’s List points out, “One of the most common reasons for tire dry rot is improper storage or infrequent use.”
Of course, leaving a car sitting in one spot isn’t the only cause of dry rot. Dry rot naturally happens “over a period of five to six years depending on the climate, temperature and humidity, the use and storage of the vehicle, and the air pressure levels of the tires,” Angie’s List says.
Angie’s List adds, “If you notice little cracks running spider-like along the sidewalls of the tires and running all the way to the tread, you may be experiencing a common phenomenon that occurs in stagnant cars – tire dry rot.”
Dry, brittle spots and hard, brittle surfaces on tires are also a sign of dry rot.
You can prevent, or at least delay, dry rot by driving your car on occasion even if it’s only to the Old Cowtown Museum and back. If you have to put your car in storage, Angie’s List suggests you use climate-controlled storage and “keep the tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommendations, store it with boards under the tires and check the air pressure at least once a month.”
What you do not want to do is drive on dry rotted tires. It’s simply not safe because “once the cracks reach the cords of the tires, the heat of long distance driving will cause the rubber to expand and the tires to actually break apart while driving.”
If you’re not sure whether your tires are suffering from lack of use or age, it’s time to find a trusted Wichita tire pro like the Wichita tire specialists at Tracy’s Automotive. They can help you decide what’s best for you, your car, your wallet and your safety. If you decide to buy new tires, Tracy’s carries all brands, sizes, and style of tire to fit any vehicle or driving need.
Tracy’s Automotive is here to help you. If you don’t have time or feel you can take your car to the shop, Tracy’s Automotive will pick it up at your home or work. Then, after your car is serviced or repaired, Tracy’s Automotive will bring it back to you thoroughly cleaned.
Tracy’s passion for a better tire buying, auto care and auto repair experience drove us to develop the model of Tracy’s Automotive Tire Pros. Tracy’s has turned hard work and inspiration into a booming tire and auto repair provider. Now Tracy’s has three locations and serves customers all over Wichita and Goddard. Tracy’s is thrilled to be a part of your family’s trusted brands for all auto repair and tire needs.
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