Why are tire age and rubber degradation important to consider?

Understanding the importance of tire age and rubber degradation is crucial to ensuring vehicle safety and performance. Old tires can become brittle due to exposure to environmental factors such as UV radiation, temperature fluctuations, and oxygen, which leads to a reduction in their elasticity and flexibility. As the rubber ages, it may also develop cracks, which can compromise the structural integrity of the tire.

When tires become brittle, they are at an increased risk of failure, particularly under stress or during high-speed driving. This brittleness can result in blowouts, tread separation, or other failures that can lead to dangerous driving conditions. Therefore, regularly checking the age of tires and looking for signs of rubber degradation is vital for maintaining safe driving conditions and ensuring optimal tire performance. Regular maintenance and timely replacement of old tires can significantly reduce the risk of accidents caused by tire failure.