Salt primarily affects tires by leaving a film on the treads. While it doesn't cause significant damage to the tire itself, this film can have some indirect effects.
Here's a breakdown:
- Minimal Direct Damage: Road salt is unlikely to cause direct structural damage to modern tires, which are made of durable rubber compounds.
- Film Formation: Salt, especially when mixed with water and road grime, can form a film on the tire's tread surface. This film can:
- Reduce Traction: A layer of salt and grime can slightly decrease the tire's grip on the road, especially in wet or icy conditions. While the effect is likely to be minor, maintaining clean tires is always beneficial for optimal traction.
- Aesthetic Impact: The film can make tires appear dirty and discolored.
- Indirect Effects: While salt itself has a minimal direct impact, the conditions associated with salt use (winter weather) can affect tires:
- Cold Temperatures: Cold weather causes tire pressure to decrease, leading to underinflation. Driving on underinflated tires can cause premature wear and reduce fuel efficiency. Regularly check and adjust tire pressure, especially during colder months.
In summary, salt itself doesn't significantly harm tires but leaves a film that can slightly reduce traction. The bigger concern is the winter conditions where salt is used, requiring regular tire pressure checks.
