How Hot Weather Affects Your Tire’s Performance and Lifespan
When the pavement heats up in the summer, so do your tires. Rising temperatures can change how your tires perform, how long they last, and even how safe your drive feels. At GT Radial, we design every tire with performance and durability in mind—because confidence on the road doesn’t take a season off.
Heat and Tire Pressure: A Delicate Balance
- Air expands when heated
- For every 10°F increase in temperature, your tire pressure can rise about 1 PSI (Understanding Tire Pressure and Temperature Change)
- If left unchecked, this extra pressure can make your ride feel harsher, wear down tread unevenly, and reduce traction
- Regular checks become even more critical during the summer months
Rubber Breakdown Under the Sun
- High heat accelerates the natural aging of rubber compounds, leading to dry rot, cracking, or weakened sidewalls
- The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) notes that heat is a significant factor in tire failures, especially when combined with under- or over-inflation
- This breakdown shortens tire life and increases the risk of blowouts
Grip and Handling in Extreme Temperatures
- Heat softens tire rubber
- Softer compounds can wear more quickly, and when combined with high pressure, traction may be reduced
- According to the U.S. Department of Energy, proper tire inflation is essential not only for safety but also for maintaining fuel economy, as under- or overinflated tires increase rolling resistance
Blowout Risks on Hot Highways
- The hotter the road surface, the harder your tires work
- Sustained high-speed driving on overheated pavement puts strain on the tire’s internal structure
- The National Transportation Safety Board has highlighted heat and underinflation as leading causes of catastrophic tire failure
Extending Tire Life in Summer Heat
You can protect your investment and maximize performance with a few smart habits:
- Check tire pressure monthly (and always when tires are cold)
- Inspect for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear before long trips
- Rotate regularly to promote even tread wear
- Avoid overloading your vehicle, which increases heat and stress
- Choose tires built for your climate—from all-season confidence to specialized all-weather and touring models in the GT Radial lineup
The GT Radial Advantage
With over 25 years of experience in North America and a U.S. manufacturing plant in Chester County, South Carolina, GT Radial combines world-class technology with local reliability. Our tires have robust mileage warranties, roadside assistance, and a 30-day Test Drive.
With proper care and the right tire technology, you can enjoy safe, smooth, and efficient driving all summer long. Click here to explore the GT Radial tire range today.
