In Spain, the technical condition of tires is considered one of the key factors for road safety. This part of the vehicle is in constant contact with the road surface, so regular inspection is necessary to prevent potential accidents.
Recently, a mechanic from Mataró, located in the province of Barcelona, posted a video on TikTok showing a tire that appeared suitable for further use. Although the wear indicator had not yet reached the critical mark, cracks were clearly visible on the surface. According to the specialist, such defects occur due to the drying and aging of the rubber.
A dry and cracked tire indicates it has been in use for a long time. In such cases, road grip is significantly reduced, which increases the likelihood of dangerous situations. The mechanic notes that he would prefer to use a worn but not dried-out tire over a dry one, since the latter provides almost no proper contact with the asphalt.
Using a car with such tires leads to longer braking distances, especially on wet surfaces. Additionally, the risk of aquaplaning increases, as does the possibility of a sudden tire burst while driving. All these factors significantly raise the chances of traffic accidents.
According to the recommendations of the Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU), the need to replace tires can be determined by tread depth. Special grooves contain indicators that show the minimum permissible depth—1.6 mm. If the tread has worn down to these marks, the tire should be replaced immediately. Otherwise, if checked by traffic police officers, the driver may face a fine, and road safety is significantly compromised.
To extend tire life, experts advise avoiding sudden maneuvers and maintaining optimal pressure. The correct pressure allows for even distribution of weight across the entire tread surface, which significantly reduces wear. Recommended tire pressure information can be found on a sticker located on the fuel tank cap or on the car’s door pillar.
