I got two NEW front tires about a year ago, however, since I'm a college student, I never really drive and the tires still look new in terms of their threading.

Anyways, I've noticed these rips along the sidewall that have grown with time. Is it safe? I don't really know how it happened. I bought these tires from a local tire shop / mechanic shop. They're cheap Chinese (Haida Tires) made tires so that's one of the reasons I suspect the poor performance.

The two pictures below are from one of my front tires only. The other is doing the same thing, but it's less pronounced. I just checked my tires' air and it was reading somewhere between 35-39 psi. So the air is okay, I assume.

Should I try and take them back for an exchange? I'm going to try and exchange them and/or try to upgrade the tires to a different (name) brand and pay a bit extra if I have to.

 

NO. not safe. i wouldn't trust those tires for hwy trips. it's not worth the risk of blow out. what's the born on date of those tires??

bear in mind that the tires are the ONLY things between your car (YOU) and the road. i'd trust the weather checked and subtlely dry rotted michelins i just had replaced on my MDX over that massive sidewall crack.

you pay for what you get i guess. you want tires that dont' break the bank try yokohamas, toyos, nittos. avoid the cheap chinese crap at all costs.

 

rule #1 NEVER put cheap tire on your car. those things are horrible for traction and longevity....

 

I agree, those tires do not look safe. I suggest you get them replaced. I have had excellent luck with Yokohama tires.

 

Thanks guys. I'm going to have to try monday or tuesday morning. hopefully it goes ok

 

Fakkenn and Khumo are ok as well

 

Holy shit, the sidewall is busting through the seams lol.

You don't have to get super expensive and nice tires, but if you're paying $100 for four tires...

 

Don't skrimp on tires! Way too important component.

 

I only buy good tires. I used to but falken but they wear too fast and the belts shifted over tie. Now I got Goodyear f1 on th front and holy shit I am in love. Buy good tires they may save your car and moreover your life. Remember ur car is only as good as the tires it resides on. Tire All look the same but bygod they are miles apart when it comes to quality and reliability.

Get new tires pal. Whatever it takes. Nothing is worth more than your safety.

 

Done. Got them replaced with Kumho tires. A world of difference in terms of ride quality, turning and ride noise.

 

Those are totally fine

 

Had similar issue with my old winter tires. It can be dry rot. In my case it was fine and nothing to worry about. While people here may be saying it's not cool, it can be just fine. The issue is if it goes all the way through. It's dependent on depth. With your car sitting a lot a little aging is likely what caused it. Your biggest problem is finding a reputable shop to take a quick look at them. Mine said they were fine. Others would tell you to get new tires even if you don't need it just so they can make a sale. I'll go with the word of my shop which has been selling tires and working on cars since the '40s over that of an internet forum.

 

Do NOT get yoko's. My dad had a pair of em on the front of his cl and he babies his car like Jay Leno and his garage(s), and his did the exact same. Only worse. I would suggest Michelin primacy or if u want more sporty tires, the Michelin pilot sports. After he got those on his cl-s it handled literally twice as good.