Tire Age and Sidewall Weathering

SIDEWALL WEATHERING

Weather cracking, pictured above, is a naturally occurring condition that results from exposure to heat and sunlight. Goodyear's warranty for weather cracking is four years from purchase date (or four years from manufacture date if proof of purchase is not available).

Weather cracking is common in RV tires from all manufacturers.

• Appears as crazing and or cracking in the flex area of the sidewall
• Probable causes of sidewall weathering
• Long periods of inactivity or storage
• Direct exposure to air and sunlight
• Exposure to high levels of ozone (smog, electrical generators)
• Excessive washing or dressing using alcohol or petroleum based cleaners

When should the tire be replaced?

• Cracks > 2/32" deep
• Internal components of tire (steel or fabric body plies) are visible

Without evidence of weather cracking, use the following as a gauge:

• Usage per year --More frequent usage will result in longer life
• Vehicle storage practices (6 months loaded with little or no rotation is not good!)
• Casing quality --Absence of repairs, liner wrinkles, weather cracking, sidewall scuffs or cuts