A man bought cheap tires online to save a quick buck and it backfired.

In a post on TikTok with over 198,000 views, this content creator (@tash.nb) explained how cheap tires that he bought from a Chinese manufacturer led to a deeper issue with the rims of his vehicle. 

Cracked Rims Are Not Worth It

In the TikTok, the content creator reveals how the cheap tires completely destroyed the rims on his vehicle. 

Ultimately, the cheap tire cracked at least one of the rims of his car. The creator made the post to warn others against purchasing cheaper products online. 

“In your 20s there will be someone who recommends buying cheap Chinese Tires to save some money. It’s very important you ignore them,” the onscreen text read.

The TikToker reveals the inside grooves within the tire that created the rim damage. These grooves are squeezed by the creator’s hand and then the tire is abruptly thrown away in frustration.

So, can a cheaper tire directly lead to your vehicle’s rims cracking? 

How Do Cheap Tires Lead To Cracked Rims?

Cheap tires tend to use harder rubber compounds, which can reduce their overall flexibility. That makes them less likely to absorb shock from potholes, curbs, and other dents. 

But, there’s not a direct correlation between cheap tires and rim cracking. A person can buy cheap tires and not run into any issues with their rims, as long as they’re not continuously running over pot holes. 

Usually, people crack their rims when they hit a curb, get a flat, or face another inordinate issue. If the tires are more likely to flatten and a person drives on them, that can also lead to deformed or bent rims. 

Rim damage can be incredibly costly, so it’s important to watch your tires and maintain them. 

How Bad Can a Cracked Tire Rim Be? 

Rims that are chipped, bent, or cracked can cause serious issues down the line. 

Cracked rims can cause wheel imbalance and lead to later tire rod deformation. That will make your vehicle shake, which is incredibly difficult to fix once the damage is done. 

Typically, bending your tire rods will permanently alter your vehicle, damaging its resale value and making it dangerous to drive.

Bent rims can also cause future tire blowouts and deflation in your wheels, Auto Detail STL reports. A bent rim will make your vehicle have uneven contact with the road, leading to your tires weakening faster through normal wear-and-tear. It can cost $150-$400 to fix a bent rim. 

To replace a broken or cracked rim, it can cost anywhere from $50 to $3000, The Tire Report shares. This price will depend on your vehicle, the materials used, and the rim size. 

In other words, it’s a costly repair that car owners should try to avoid when possible. 

Should You Buy Tires Online? 

You shouldn’t write off getting tires online. But, if you’re an unseasoned tire buyer, it may be better to get them in-person. 

Getting tires online can lead to cheaper deals for tires that are made out of the same exact materials as those you purchase in-person, making it a more attractive option. However, experts are more likely to guide you toward the correct tires if you’re making your purchases in person. 

“Every vehicle and driver is unique, and so are their tire requirements. In-store professionals can offer personalized recommendations based on factors such as your driving terrain, climate, mileage, and budget,” per Take Off Tire.

That means that buying tires online can lead to risky ventures. If you purchase something that doesn’t quite fit your vehicle, you could end up wasting money. Similarly, you may crack the rims on your vehicle if you accidentally put tires on that aren’t the best fit for your car. 

The Comment Section Was Divided

Despite @tash.nb warnings, many people disagreed with their overall claims and said that cheap tires are fine. 

“Never had any issues with my cheap tires,” one TikTok commenter added. 

“I’ve bought good tires & I’ve bought cheap tires, every single time the cheaper ones have done better,” another shared. 

“Been using Chinese tires for 20 years without a single issue and they last longer than the name brands I used to buy,” a third commented. 

While other viewers stressed the importance of not buying cheap tires. 

“Never go cheap on shoes or tires,” one added.

“Michelin or nothing. I learned my lesson,” one shared. 

“Never cheap out on tires, brakes, batteries, or wipers,” a third suggested. 

We’ve reached out to @tash.nb for comment via TikTok direct message. We’ll let you know if they respond.

@tash.nb

Cracked rims are NOT worth it

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