Should you buy retreaded tires for your car? we answer!
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Do you know what retreaded tires are? Otherwise, these are popular "tinctures" (not to be confused with liquor). Retreaded tires are created by regenerating worn models. However, they have a new protector inside them. And it is this element that has a direct impact on traction and driving comfort. Should you buy tires that have been given a second life? Check it out and find out about the pros and cons of this particular tire recycling!
What does retreaded tires mean?
Retreaded tires are tires that have received a new layer of rubber with a tread on a steel carcass (body). Therefore, such a tire can be called regenerated, and another name is "tincture". The condition of the used tires is of key importance in the context of the possibility of regeneration of used tires. Tires must pass a series of tests to confirm their quality. In addition, the tire itself must not be older than 5 years.
Retreaded tires - what does this mean in practice?
There are basically two ways to get retreaded tires:
- cold;
- on hot.
What is the difference between these methods and how do they affect the price of the models? A detailed description can be found below!
Tires "tincture" - what is the "cold" method?
The method comes down to mechanical cleaning of the old tire and checking its condition. If the degree of wear is acceptable and the tire passes inspection, you can proceed to retreading. With the "cold" method, a ready-made rubber belt with a relief tread is used. Tires retreaded in this way are glued to the steel body of the tyre.
Hot tire retread or what?
The similarity with the above method is visible only at the level of checking the condition of a used tire. At the next stage, under the influence of high temperature and vulcanization, new rubber can be applied to the carcass. In the next step, the tire is placed in a hydraulic machine. This, under the influence of heat and pressure, simulates the tread pattern on the tire. Hot retreading is a method intended more for premium or mid-range tires as the process is more expensive.
Differences in tire retreading methods - what do they affect?
The most important factor for many customers is the final cost of tire retreading. Gluing a new and finished tread to the carcass is cheaper. Therefore, cold retread tires are more affordable. The vulcanization method is more expensive and therefore will be the most cost effective when retreading high quality tyres. Some believe that this also gives the tires greater durability.
Characteristics of retreaded tires
It is clear that there are supporters and opponents of such products. What are the advantages and disadvantages of retreaded tires? It is worth looking at the positive and negative characteristics.
What are the benefits of a retreaded tire?
First of all, the tire tread is new. This will improve:
- traction while driving;
- braking distances;
- keeping the car in corners.
The car is also more stable on slippery surfaces. The retreading process can also be performed up to 3 times. Another advantage is the large tread depth, which minimizes hydroplaning. This will give you better drainage when riding through puddles. Retreaded tires are also about 30% cheaper than new ones.
Cons of retreaded tires
True, a new tread is put on the tires, but this does not significantly affect their service life. It usually wears out faster than freshly made products. In this case, there is more risk of damaging the case, because it has already been used for several years. Noise while driving can also be a disadvantage. Although the new tread is grippy, you may experience higher noise levels when accelerating than with new tires.
Retreaded tires and conspiracy theories and myths
Unfortunately, many myths have grown up around retreaded tires over the years. It was influenced by negative user experience, bad art released to the market, or just made up stories. Here are a few such theories, which, importantly, have nothing to do with the truth:
- retreaded tires are not suitable for 4x4 drive (allegedly problems with the power train);
- they cannot be balanced;
- "tinctures" are only suitable for trucks;
- A retreaded tire may burst while driving.
Retreaded Tires - Should You Buy Them?
If you look at it from a purely economic point of view, it makes sense. Retreaded tires in popular sizes can be purchased for no more than 50 euros per set. However, what the car is used for is very important. This procedure is most advantageous for truck tires, where a new tread can be applied up to 3 times on the same carcass. However, sports cars are better equipped with new tires. If our article prompted you to buy retreaded tires, don't forget to follow the manufacturer's opinion. If you guarantee your tires and don't hide your brand, you have a better chance of success. Rather, do not buy tires from anonymous and unverified manufacturers, because the savings can only be apparent.
