Are Dry Rotted Tires Dangerous?

Goodyear suggests not using petroleum-based tire shine products, as they may cause accelerated dry rot.

Tire sidewall cracking is a condition caused by oxidation in the rubber compounds used in a tire's construction. Though modern manufacturers use a number of additives to prevent it, this cracking condition can affect any tire no matter how new.

"Dry Rot" vs. Sidewall Cracking

The term "dry rot" applies only to old cotton-based bias-ply tires that haven't seen production for the street in 30 years. The condition as it applies to modern tires is called "sidewall cracking."

Pressure Loss

There's about a 50/50 chance your cracking tires will begin to lose air pressure in a slow leak before catastrophic failure occurs.

Pressure Failure

These small cracks can open rapidly, releasing the tire's air pressure in a severe blow-out with no warning whatsoever.

Splitting

Sidewall cracks can lead to sudden and massive rips in the sidewall severe enough to separate the tire from the rim.

Failure Scenario

Since a sidewall's job is to absorb road variations, sudden failures will usually occur while traveling at high speed on imperfect roads.

References

• Goodyear.com: Dry Rot Question
• Cadillacforums.com: Dry Rot Discussion

Resources

• Video: Dry Rot Tire Blowout