Is Dry Rot On Tires A Myth?

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A routine visit to your local auto mechanic may take an unexpected turn when the mechanic informs you that dry rot was found on your tires. Further, the mechanic warns you that this is a serious situation and advises that your affected tires be replaced immediately. If you are like most people, you may feel a little wary about this advice, since you likely have never even heard of dry rot on tires. To help clear up the confusion about this tire problem, read on to learn more about dry rot and whether or not you should be concerned.

Tires don't just rot, do they?

No, they don't actually rot, but tires can grow a certain type of fungus that causes tiny cracks to form in a spiderweb-like pattern. Dry, sunny and warm climates can cause the chances for dry rot to increase. The "dry" part of the term refers to the way dry rot makes your tires look and feel, which is cracked and brittle.

Just how serious is dry rot?

You may, or may not, need to replace your tires right away; it depends on how much dry rot you already have. Your tire mechanic should be able to give you an idea of the level of damage and how many more miles you can safely drive with your present tires. If the damage is caught early enough, a sealant can be applied to help extend the life of the tire. If you do have some dry rot, be sure to have your tires checked more often than usual, and especially if you are going on a longer car trip.

Dry rot is progressive, so if you have a little it will undoubtedly get worse over time and use. Dry rotted tires are dangerous to drive on, especially at high speeds where heat is allowed to build up on the surface of tires. If the rot is bad enough, the heat from use will enter the inner cord area, causing a catastrophic blow-out, which could lead to an accident.

Is dry rot preventable?

There are a few steps you can take to help prevent this tire malady:

1. Park in the shade, a garage or other covered area since U.V. rays can cause dry rot.
2. Apply a tire protectant solution to keep your tires moisturized and to provide a sun and heat barrier. Caution: never apply tire protectant (or anything else) to the surface area of your tires; only to the sidewalls. You could compromise the traction of the tire and be unable to corner or stop your vehicle if your tires are too slippery.
3. Using the manufacturers recommendations, keep your tires properly inflated at all times and check the tire pressure frequently.

For more information about dry rot in tires, talk to your local tire mechanic such as XL Auto Service & Tires.  

25 July 2016