Heat can have a significant effect on rubber tires. With soaring summer temperatures, it’s important to have an auto mechanic verify that your tires are safe to use, especially before departing on long-distance trips. This guide points out the common ways that heat can affect your tires and how you can identify tires that have been warped by high temperatures.

How Does Heat Affect Tires?

Your tires are flexible because of the natural and synthetic components in rubber, which contain special oils. Flexibility is important since tires are constantly battered by dips, bumps, and uneven spots on roads. Heat impacts the flexibility of your tires by drying up the natural oils. The lack of oils combined with friction from the road can eventually cause your tires to become brittle. When an auto mechanic inspects your tires, they’ll look for cracks or splits, which are telltale signs of brittle rubber. 

In addition to affecting the rubber, heat causes pressure changes within the tire. Without the proper amount of air pressure, your tires won’t function as they should. Higher temperatures lead to an increase in air pressure, so your tires could end up over-inflated if they were already full. Driving with over-inflated tires is uncomfortable and can be risky if you have to make quick movements. 

What Are the Warning Signs?

If you’re concerned about tire heat damage, there are a few clues to watch for. First, regularly look for cracks or splits in your tires. Inspect each tire thoroughly since imperfections can be hard to detect. Second, test your tire pressure to see if it has changed, especially if your car isn’t driving normally. Keep your tires inflated at the recommended level. Lastly, look for any separation between the tread and the interior tube of the tire. This is a serious issue that must be addressed before you drive again. If you’re still concerned about heat damage after looking for the signs above, visit an auto mechanic for further inspection. 

The professionals at Elite Automotive Repair in Mountain Home, AR, can help you determine if your tires have been negatively impacted by heat. Their ASE-certified mechanics and technicians can assist with all aspects of your vehicle, including tires, diagnostics, repairs, and oil changes. This professional automotive company has been in business since 2010. See the services they offer online or give them a call at (870) 580-0757.