Why are my nexen tires turning brown? Have you ever noticed a peculiar brown hue appearing on your Nexen tires and wondered what could be causing this discoloration? You’re certainly not alone, as many car owners have found themselves scratching their heads over this unexpected tire transformation.
In our relentless quest for answers to unusual auto-mysteries, we’ll delve deeper into the possible reasons behind this phenomenon. We’ll explore the factors that could potentially lead to your Nexen tires taking on a brownish tone, without immediately revealing the main culprit.
Buckle up for an insightful journey into the world of tire care and maintenance.
why are my Nexen tires turning brown
Your Nexen tires are turning brown likely due to a process called blooming, where antiozonants used in the rubber compound come to the surface and react with UV light.
Antiozonants protect the tire from ozone damage, but their migration can cause discoloration. Regular cleaning and protectant application can help prevent this browning effect.
You May Also Like: Nitto Tires Browning Causes
Causes of Nexen Tire Discoloration
Nexen Tire discoloration often stems from prolonged exposure to sunlight and harsh environmental conditions, which lead to the degradation of the rubber compounds. The UV rays in sunlight can break down the tire’s materials, causing a change in color, often seen as browning or a faded appearance.
Chemicals used on roads for de-icing or cleaning can also contribute to tire discoloration by reacting with the tire’s surface. Regular contact with such substances, without proper cleaning and maintenance, accelerates wear and leads to aesthetic changes in the tire’s appearance.
Tire blooming & Does it Affect tire performance
Tire blooming, also known as tire browning, refers to the appearance of a brownish film on the surface of tires, which is caused by an antioxidant compound in the rubber coming to the surface. Although primarily a cosmetic issue, tire blooming does not significantly impair tire performance or safety when it comes to grip, handling, or braking capabilities.
However, chronic neglect of tire maintenance that allows blooming to persist may eventually lead to drying and cracking of the rubber, which can compromise a tire’s structural integrity over time. Regular cleaning with appropriate products can keep tires looking fresh while removing accumulated dirt and grime that could mask more severe issues like tread wear or sidewall damage.
How To Prevent Nexen Tires From Turning Brown
To preserve the aesthetic appeal of your Nexen tires and prevent them from turning brown, regular maintenance is essential. Washing your tires with a specially designed tire cleaner can remove accumulated grime and brake dust, which causes discoloration over time.
Protecting your Nexen tires from harmful UV rays and ozone is another key step; using a tire protectant that contains UV inhibitors can significantly reduce the chances of browning. These protective products form a barrier, not only enhancing the durability of the tire but also keeping them looking newer for longer.
Also Read: Uniroyal Tire Browning Causes
How Do you Remove Browning From Nexen Tires?
To remove browning from Nexen tires, begin by thoroughly cleaning the tires with a quality tire cleaner or a mild soap solution. This initial wash will strip away surface grime and prepare the rubber for a deeper cleaning.
For more persistent browning, use a dedicated tire brush and a specialized tire cleaning product designed to remove browning or blooming, which is caused by antiozonants coming to the surface. Scrubbing with these solutions helps to break down the brown layer and restore the tires’ original black appearance.
To prevent future browning, apply a tire protectant after cleaning, which not only gives your Nexen tires a glossy finish but also provides an additional layer of protection against environmental factors. Regular maintenance and protection are key in keeping your tires free from unsightly browning over time.
Overall Nexen Tire Maintenance And Care
To maintain the longevity and performance of Nexen tires, regular inspections are crucial. Check the tread depth to ensure it’s above the legal limit and look for any signs of wear or damage, such as cracks, bulges, or punctures that could compromise your vehicle’s grip and safety on the road.
Proper tire pressure is vital for efficient fuel consumption and tire endurance. It’s recommended to use a reliable gauge to measure tire pressure monthly when tires are cold, adjusting it according to Nexen’s guidelines found in your vehicle’s manual or on the driver’s side doorjamb.
Rotating your Nexen tires is an essential part of care that equalizes tread wear and extends their useful life. Align with your vehicle manufacturer’s suggested rotation pattern every 5,000 to 8,000 miles to promote even distribution of wear across all four tires, enhancing driving stability and efficiency.
Also Read: Hercules Tires Browning Causes
Final Thoughts
Your Nexen tires are turning brown primarily due to a process known as blooming, where protective antiozonants within the tire composition migrate to the surface and react with UV light and ozone.
This discoloration doesn’t typically affect tire performance, but can be prevented with regular cleaning and the application of a protectant containing UV inhibitors. To combat existing browning, use a dedicated tire cleaner and brush for thorough cleaning, followed by a protectant to maintain appearance and prevent future browning.
Regular maintenance such as checking tread depth, ensuring proper tire pressure, and rotating your tires will also help preserve your Nexen tires’ longevity and performance.
This post contains affiliate links. Read the full disclosure here.
I am passionate about all things automotive and have a deep understanding of the topic. As a mechanic, I use my free time to share knowledge of everyday challenges that any car owner can experience – helping you make informed decisions about tires.