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Dressing for Tire Success
Pete Candela is a AAA ASE-certified auto expert with over 30 years’ experience
Pete, I have been maintaining my vehicle myself for many years, including complete interior and exterior detailing. I like to use a tire dressing for the sharp look, but my neighbor is telling me that certain tire dressings can cause premature tire failure. Is this true?
–Stan F.
Stan, there is some truth to what your neighbor is telling you. Because tires are a petroleum-based product, they break down naturally, and UV rays of the sun can accelerate the deterioration. By applying a dressing that is solvent-based, the look may last longer, but it can accelerate the deterioration process even further. This could lead to a premature sidewall failure. I agree that tire dressings give a nice, crisp look, but try to use a water-based dressing instead.
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1515 N. Westshore Blvd.
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