Understanding Tire Aging and Environmental Exposure
Tires are typically exposed to a number of extreme conditions on the road, including acid rain, harsh chemicals and direct sunlight. Although the rubber compound in a tire may feature anti-aging chemicals in its composition, exposure to the elements can cause the rubber to lose some of its elasticity and create surface cracks. The anti-aging chemicals are more effective when tires are regularly used. Tires on vehicles that are driven infrequently are more likely to experience cracking, because long periods of parking or storage may interrupt the “working” of the tire rubber.
