An auto expert explained the dangers of driving on old tires

Worn tires significantly increase the braking distance, and traction deteriorates with critically low tread depth. Tires with a small tread drain water worse, which increases the risk of aquaplaning. Nikolay Pogulyaev, the owner and head of the Fit Service car service, recalled this.

"When the tread depth is critically low, traction deteriorates. On a wet surface, a difference of 1-2 mm in depth can add several meters to the braking distance. For example, a car with new tires at a speed of 80 km/h on a wet road will stop for 40 meters, and on worn—out tires for 60 or more," Rossiyskaya Gazeta quoted Pogulyaev as saying on April 3.

At the same time, even on dry asphalt, a car with worn tires can behave unstably. With such tires, sudden maneuvers become more dangerous, cornering grip deteriorates, and the driver loses confidence in handling. In addition, if the tires have hernias, deep cracks or delamination, they can burst when hitting a pit or making a sudden maneuver, which will lead to a sudden loss of control, the expert noted.

In addition, old tires increase fuel consumption (worn rubber has greater rolling resistance) and put more strain on the suspension, which causes its elements to wear out faster, the specialist added.

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Earlier in the day, auto expert Nikolai Pogulyaev said that improper storage of tires can significantly shorten their service life. One of the most common mistakes is storing rubber in a bag. In addition, many drivers use their tires incorrectly, which also shortens their "life".

On March 26, auto expert Vadim Strelbitsky said that with the arrival of spring, many car owners encounter unexpected breakdowns that went unnoticed in winter. The expert named the effects of corrosion as one of the main problems.