Summer tire cracking
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 361
Likes: 116
From: Kentucky
Please see attached link to the Service Bulletin covering this issue.
-Car does not have to be driven to cause this condition. Exposure to the cold temps are enough. (some of these cracks were found to have occurred during shipping from the factory).
-Once cracked, the tires should be disposed of and not used.
-GM will not replace tires with this condition under warranty (or at least did not for the C7).
Guys, I am not trying to scream fire in a crowded theatre, I am just trying to find out if the condition in the SB might apply to either tire (but in my case a Z51) installed on the C8.
I may have a delivery coming in February to April where in my area could very likely have these Temps.
VH
-Car does not have to be driven to cause this condition. Exposure to the cold temps are enough. (some of these cracks were found to have occurred during shipping from the factory).
-Once cracked, the tires should be disposed of and not used.
-GM will not replace tires with this condition under warranty (or at least did not for the C7).
Guys, I am not trying to scream fire in a crowded theatre, I am just trying to find out if the condition in the SB might apply to either tire (but in my case a Z51) installed on the C8.
I may have a delivery coming in February to April where in my area could very likely have these Temps.
VH
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 361
Likes: 116
From: Kentucky
Service Bulletin
File in Section: 03 - Suspension
Bulletin No.: 13-03-10-001D
Date: August, 2016
INFORMATION
Subject: Information on Tire Cold Weather Cracking
Models: 2012-2017 Buick Regal GS
2014-2015 Cadillac CTS Vsport
2016-2017 Cadillac ATS-V, CTS-V
2012-2015 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, Z/28
2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
2013-2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS with RPO 1LE
2014-2017 Chevrolet Corvette, Corvette Z06
2014-2017 Chevrolet SS
Attention: Advise customers of these vehicles that they are equipped with a high performance
summer-only tire that will have reduced traction performance at temperatures below
approximately 40°F (5°C). GM recommends installing winter tires if driving below these
temperatures. Avoid driving, moving, or test-driving vehicles equipped with high
performance summer-only tires below 20°F (−7°C), as operating at these temperatures
can cause damage to the tires. This Bulletin also applies to any of the above models
that may be Export vehicles.
This Bulletin has been revised to update the Model Years. Please discard Corporate Bulletin
Number 13-03-10-001C.
Cold Weather Operation
The vehicles referenced above are all equipped with 3
season performance tires commonly referred to as
“Summer Tires.”
The rubber used in these tires loses flexibility and may
develop surface cracks (1) in the tire tread/shoulder
area at colder temperatures. Refer to the photos below
for examples.
Surface cracks are cosmetic and will not result in a loss
of air, however special tread and compounds used on
these performance tires will cause a decrease in
performance in cold climates. Driving with high
performance summer tires on snow, ice or cold road
surfaces may cause loss of control.
Important: While the cracking will not result in air
loss, it is damaging to the tire. Tires that have been
used in cold climates and exhibit tread cracks should
be discarded.
Tire Surface Cracks
3274901
Page 2 August, 2016 Bulletin No.: 13-03-10-001D
3701321
2014-2015 Cadillac CTS Vsport
The 2014 and 2015 Cadillac CTS Vsport is equipped
with 245/40R18 and 275/35R18 Pirelli P-Zero Nero
(RPO RKK) ultra-high performance summer tires.
Please advise customers that this vehicle is equipped
with an ultra-high performance summer tire that will
have reduced traction performance at temperatures
below approximately 5°C (40°F). GM recommends
installing winter tires if driving below these
temperatures.
Avoid driving, moving, or test-driving CTSs
equipped with Pirelli P-Zero Nero (RPO RKK) tires
below -7°C (20°F) as operating at these
temperatures can cause damage to the tires.
Refer to the latest version of Corporate Bulletin Number
04-03-10-013: Driving Characteristics of Rear Wheel
Drive Vehicles and Available Winter Tires for further
information on available replacement winter tires for
cold climate operation. Additionally, dealers in the
United States may call the GM Tire Program at
877-728-4737 for help with late season tire availability
or substitutions.
2012-2015 Camaro Models RPO (ZL1, 1LE or Z28),
2017 Camaro ZL1
The Camaro ZL1 and RPO 1LE vehicles come with
285/35ZR20 and/or 305/35ZR20 Goodyear F1
Supercar G2 D.O.T. approved ultra high performance,
track capable summer tires as standard equipment.
The Camaro Z/28 is equipped with 305/30ZR19 Pirelli
P Zero Trofeo R of similar capabilities.
All of these Camaro models tires are not intended to be
driven on snow, ice or road surfaces below -7°C (20°F).
If the ambient temperature in your location is at or
below -7°C (20°F), DO NOT MOVE THIS VEHICLE.
Driving the vehicle, when the temperature is below -7°C
(20°F), may result in surface cracks in the tread area of
the tire.
Refer to the latest version of Corporate Bulletin Number
04-03-10-013: Driving Characteristics of Rear Wheel
Drive Vehicles and Available Winter Tires for further
information on available replacement winter tires for
cold climate operation.
2014-2017 Corvette, Corvette Z06
The 2014−2017 Corvette is equipped with Michelin
Pilot Super Sport ZP Runflat tires or Michelin Pilot
Sport Cup 2 ZP tires. These tires are ultra high
performance, track capable summer tires.
This tire has reduced capability below 5°C (40°F) and it
is recommended that suitable winter tires be fitted
below this temperature.
Avoid driving, moving, or test-driving Corvettes
equipped with Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP tires
below -7°C (20°F) as operating at these
temperatures can cause damage to the tires.
Refer to the latest version of Corporate Bulletin Number
04-03-10-013: Driving Characteristics of Rear Wheel
Drive Vehicles and Available Winter Tires for further
information on available replacement winter tires for
cold climate operation.
2014-2017 Chevrolet SS
The 2014−2016 SS is equipped with Bridgestone
ultra-high performance summer tires.
This tire has reduced capability below 5°C (40°F) and it
is recommended that suitable winter tires be fitted
below this temperature.
Refer to the latest version of Corporate Bulletin Number
04-03-10-013: Driving Characteristics of Rear Wheel
Drive Vehicles and Available Winter Tires for further
information on available replacement winter tires for
cold climate operation.
2012-2017 Buick Regal GS, 2016-2017 Cadillac
ATS-V and CTS-V
The 2012-2017 Regal GS, 2016-2017 Cadillac ATS-V
and CTS-V are equipped with ultra-high performance
summer tires.
This tire has reduced capability below 5°C (40°F) and it
is recommended that suitable winter tires be fitted
below this temperature.
Refer to the latest version of Corporate Bulletin Number
04-03-10-013: Driving Characteristics of Rear Wheel
Drive Vehicles and Available Winter Tires for further
information on available replacement winter tires for
cold climate operation.
Tire Storage
It is recommended that Summer tires are stored
indoors at temperatures above -7°C (20°F) when not in
use. If the tires have been subjected to -7°C (20°F) or
less, let them warm up in a heated space to at least 5°C
(40°F) for 24 hours or more before being installed or
driving a vehicle on which they are installed. Inflate the
tires only after they have been warmed above 5°C (40°
F). Do not place tires near heaters or heating devices
used to warm the room where the tires are stored. Do
not apply heat or blow heated air directly on the tires.
Always inspect tires before use after being stored.
Bulletin No.: 13-03-10-001D August, 2016 Page 3
Customer Information
Please share this information with the customer,
including a copy of this message.
File in Section: 03 - Suspension
Bulletin No.: 13-03-10-001D
Date: August, 2016
INFORMATION
Subject: Information on Tire Cold Weather Cracking
Models: 2012-2017 Buick Regal GS
2014-2015 Cadillac CTS Vsport
2016-2017 Cadillac ATS-V, CTS-V
2012-2015 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, Z/28
2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
2013-2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS with RPO 1LE
2014-2017 Chevrolet Corvette, Corvette Z06
2014-2017 Chevrolet SS
Attention: Advise customers of these vehicles that they are equipped with a high performance
summer-only tire that will have reduced traction performance at temperatures below
approximately 40°F (5°C). GM recommends installing winter tires if driving below these
temperatures. Avoid driving, moving, or test-driving vehicles equipped with high
performance summer-only tires below 20°F (−7°C), as operating at these temperatures
can cause damage to the tires. This Bulletin also applies to any of the above models
that may be Export vehicles.
This Bulletin has been revised to update the Model Years. Please discard Corporate Bulletin
Number 13-03-10-001C.
Cold Weather Operation
The vehicles referenced above are all equipped with 3
season performance tires commonly referred to as
“Summer Tires.”
The rubber used in these tires loses flexibility and may
develop surface cracks (1) in the tire tread/shoulder
area at colder temperatures. Refer to the photos below
for examples.
Surface cracks are cosmetic and will not result in a loss
of air, however special tread and compounds used on
these performance tires will cause a decrease in
performance in cold climates. Driving with high
performance summer tires on snow, ice or cold road
surfaces may cause loss of control.
Important: While the cracking will not result in air
loss, it is damaging to the tire. Tires that have been
used in cold climates and exhibit tread cracks should
be discarded.
Tire Surface Cracks
3274901
Page 2 August, 2016 Bulletin No.: 13-03-10-001D
3701321
2014-2015 Cadillac CTS Vsport
The 2014 and 2015 Cadillac CTS Vsport is equipped
with 245/40R18 and 275/35R18 Pirelli P-Zero Nero
(RPO RKK) ultra-high performance summer tires.
Please advise customers that this vehicle is equipped
with an ultra-high performance summer tire that will
have reduced traction performance at temperatures
below approximately 5°C (40°F). GM recommends
installing winter tires if driving below these
temperatures.
Avoid driving, moving, or test-driving CTSs
equipped with Pirelli P-Zero Nero (RPO RKK) tires
below -7°C (20°F) as operating at these
temperatures can cause damage to the tires.
Refer to the latest version of Corporate Bulletin Number
04-03-10-013: Driving Characteristics of Rear Wheel
Drive Vehicles and Available Winter Tires for further
information on available replacement winter tires for
cold climate operation. Additionally, dealers in the
United States may call the GM Tire Program at
877-728-4737 for help with late season tire availability
or substitutions.
2012-2015 Camaro Models RPO (ZL1, 1LE or Z28),
2017 Camaro ZL1
The Camaro ZL1 and RPO 1LE vehicles come with
285/35ZR20 and/or 305/35ZR20 Goodyear F1
Supercar G2 D.O.T. approved ultra high performance,
track capable summer tires as standard equipment.
The Camaro Z/28 is equipped with 305/30ZR19 Pirelli
P Zero Trofeo R of similar capabilities.
All of these Camaro models tires are not intended to be
driven on snow, ice or road surfaces below -7°C (20°F).
If the ambient temperature in your location is at or
below -7°C (20°F), DO NOT MOVE THIS VEHICLE.
Driving the vehicle, when the temperature is below -7°C
(20°F), may result in surface cracks in the tread area of
the tire.
Refer to the latest version of Corporate Bulletin Number
04-03-10-013: Driving Characteristics of Rear Wheel
Drive Vehicles and Available Winter Tires for further
information on available replacement winter tires for
cold climate operation.
2014-2017 Corvette, Corvette Z06
The 2014−2017 Corvette is equipped with Michelin
Pilot Super Sport ZP Runflat tires or Michelin Pilot
Sport Cup 2 ZP tires. These tires are ultra high
performance, track capable summer tires.
This tire has reduced capability below 5°C (40°F) and it
is recommended that suitable winter tires be fitted
below this temperature.
Avoid driving, moving, or test-driving Corvettes
equipped with Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP tires
below -7°C (20°F) as operating at these
temperatures can cause damage to the tires.
Refer to the latest version of Corporate Bulletin Number
04-03-10-013: Driving Characteristics of Rear Wheel
Drive Vehicles and Available Winter Tires for further
information on available replacement winter tires for
cold climate operation.
2014-2017 Chevrolet SS
The 2014−2016 SS is equipped with Bridgestone
ultra-high performance summer tires.
This tire has reduced capability below 5°C (40°F) and it
is recommended that suitable winter tires be fitted
below this temperature.
Refer to the latest version of Corporate Bulletin Number
04-03-10-013: Driving Characteristics of Rear Wheel
Drive Vehicles and Available Winter Tires for further
information on available replacement winter tires for
cold climate operation.
2012-2017 Buick Regal GS, 2016-2017 Cadillac
ATS-V and CTS-V
The 2012-2017 Regal GS, 2016-2017 Cadillac ATS-V
and CTS-V are equipped with ultra-high performance
summer tires.
This tire has reduced capability below 5°C (40°F) and it
is recommended that suitable winter tires be fitted
below this temperature.
Refer to the latest version of Corporate Bulletin Number
04-03-10-013: Driving Characteristics of Rear Wheel
Drive Vehicles and Available Winter Tires for further
information on available replacement winter tires for
cold climate operation.
Tire Storage
It is recommended that Summer tires are stored
indoors at temperatures above -7°C (20°F) when not in
use. If the tires have been subjected to -7°C (20°F) or
less, let them warm up in a heated space to at least 5°C
(40°F) for 24 hours or more before being installed or
driving a vehicle on which they are installed. Inflate the
tires only after they have been warmed above 5°C (40°
F). Do not place tires near heaters or heating devices
used to warm the room where the tires are stored. Do
not apply heat or blow heated air directly on the tires.
Always inspect tires before use after being stored.
Bulletin No.: 13-03-10-001D August, 2016 Page 3
Customer Information
Please share this information with the customer,
including a copy of this message.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2018
Posts: 2,666
Likes: 1,778
From: North Texas
I think alot of it comes down to the individual tire compound. I've been on the racetrack below freezing on Nitto NT05s (r-comps, so definitely "summer tire") and lived to tell the tale. Hell, on the back straight there was ICE across the entire track for about 30 yards (and right at the normal start of braking). And this was after the car sat on those tires overnight (while it snowed and iced). They were definitely flat spotted and it took some time to get them warm enough to go back to round and they were slick as snot until I got some heat into them, but meh.. I'd do it again.
Being in Texas, it definitely does not make sense to get another set of wheels/tires for the handful of days it is cold enough to need winter tires (or even all seasons). Now, generally I don't drive one of the cars with summer times on it, but that doesn't mean I wouldn't.
Being in Texas, it definitely does not make sense to get another set of wheels/tires for the handful of days it is cold enough to need winter tires (or even all seasons). Now, generally I don't drive one of the cars with summer times on it, but that doesn't mean I wouldn't.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 7,088
Likes: 1,829
From: Metro Detroit Michigan
I've driven my Super Sport tires in temperatures as low as 20 degrees, and never had the "cracking" issue. If I had, I'd be more likely to suspect offloading the car from a car-hauler, when temperatures around here were between zero. and 15 below.
Yes, traction decreases at lower temperatures, but it doesn't really go below the traction thresholds of "normal" cars.
Yes, traction decreases at lower temperatures, but it doesn't really go below the traction thresholds of "normal" cars.
Last edited by Warp Factor; Sep 25, 2019 at 12:03 PM.
Banned Scam/Spammer
Joined: Apr 2016
Posts: 5,951
Likes: 952
From: Stockton, ca
Being in Texas, it definitely does not make sense to get another set of wheels/tires for the handful of days it is cold enough to need winter tires (or even all seasons). Now, generally I don't drive one of the cars with summer times on it, but that doesn't mean I wouldn't.
I should be good in Cali. lowest I seen is 35 deg and I'm sure it it be in the mid 40's or higher when the sun starts to pops out.
Advanced
Joined: Jul 2019
Posts: 82
Likes: 42
From: upstate NY
2014-2017 Corvette, Corvette Z06
The 2014−2017 Corvette is equipped with Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP Runflat tires or Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 ZP tires. These tires are ultra high performance, track capable summer tires. This tire has reduced capability below 5°C (40°F) and it is recommended that suitable winter tires be fitted below this temperature.
Avoid driving, moving, or test-driving Corvettes equipped with Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP tires below -7°C (20°F) as operating at these temperatures can cause damage to the tires.
Refer to the latest version of Corporate Bulletin Number 04-03-10-013: Driving Characteristics of Rear Wheel Drive Vehicles and Available Winter Tires for further information on available replacement winter tires for cold climate operation.
The 2014−2017 Corvette is equipped with Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP Runflat tires or Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 ZP tires. These tires are ultra high performance, track capable summer tires. This tire has reduced capability below 5°C (40°F) and it is recommended that suitable winter tires be fitted below this temperature.
Avoid driving, moving, or test-driving Corvettes equipped with Michelin Pilot Super Sport ZP tires below -7°C (20°F) as operating at these temperatures can cause damage to the tires.
Refer to the latest version of Corporate Bulletin Number 04-03-10-013: Driving Characteristics of Rear Wheel Drive Vehicles and Available Winter Tires for further information on available replacement winter tires for cold climate operation.
Last edited by 40hp VW; Sep 25, 2019 at 12:40 PM.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 1,008
Likes: 82
Never heard of cold cracking tires. My understanding it's UV radiation and ozone. I've driven Porsches with Dunlop, Pirelli P Zero, Michelin PS2, and Sumitomo summer tires in the canyons in sub 20 degree temps for nearly 20 years. Never any cracking. I do tip toe around on those ice cold roads however and don't see how quickly I can straighten out the curves.
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Safety Car
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 3,714
Likes: 343
From: Norman OK
The chance of summer only tires cracking really depends on the conditions the tire is put in. My 2017 Camaro SS 1LE came with the GY F1 Supercar generation 3 tires. I live in Oklahoma and drove on those tires for the 1st year all year long no matter the temps. Only bad was what I expected, when it was cold outside grip was reduced. I replaced those tires with the Michelin Pilot 4S summer performance tire. I put 10.5k miles on the stock tires, I am at 23.5k on the Michelin tires and drive year round no matter the temps, again zero issues with the tires other than lack of traction when it is cold out. Doesnt help the car makes 650rwhp either, so traction is limited all the time.
My car doesnt sit outside all the time, it is parked in a garage and only sits outside when I am at work.
My car doesnt sit outside all the time, it is parked in a garage and only sits outside when I am at work.
Race Director
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 13,934
Likes: 4,257
From: NC
Burning Brakes
Joined: Feb 2018
Posts: 927
Likes: 383
I'm in Canada and was told something appropriate to this question by my (very experienced) sales guy. And I believe some of the information above is now outdated.
In the past, Corvette would not ship to Canada in the winter months. He says that this was because the tires could get damaged in transit in extreme cold.
No more apparently. The new tires will withstand our winter temps without damage. My car (Z51) may arrive as soon as January.
In the past, Corvette would not ship to Canada in the winter months. He says that this was because the tires could get damaged in transit in extreme cold.
No more apparently. The new tires will withstand our winter temps without damage. My car (Z51) may arrive as soon as January.
Last edited by Bikerjulio; Sep 27, 2019 at 06:37 PM.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Feb 2018
Posts: 927
Likes: 383
It will go out occasionally on dry days in winter and I'll just go easy on the gas.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 1999
Posts: 6,516
Likes: 4,840
From: One Hour From Boston!
Or, buy a second vehicle. In my case, I bought a 4WD Jeep as a second vehicle. Never worried about getting around in the winter after purchasing the Jeep.
Team Owner
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 25,583
Likes: 16,942
For me, it's not about getting around in snow or ice. It's about being able to drive in a spirited fashion in the dead of winter on a bright sunny day, on dry pavement, when the temp is 20ºF. A tire like the AS3+ allows you do that with very good grip at those temps.
I insist on using any vehicle I own 12 months a year.
I insist on using any vehicle I own 12 months a year.
Last edited by Foosh; Sep 28, 2019 at 11:53 AM.
Race Director
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 16,066
Likes: 4,149
From: Bergen county NJ
Just checked yesterday...the c8 tires wont crack in cold winter months but traction will be reduced so figure 1970 level of grip from your c8 z51...
based on that assumption decide if you want snow tires ...
the summer tires only kn the c8 wont crack...
ill probably buy a nother set of take rims and out snows on them....
the cost is nothing as this meathod just extends the life of the summer tires,,
its bascially free with the exception if a $500 set if oem c8 takeoffs and the tire sensors....
ive driven fir years all year round on summer only tires...in the NY tri state area....its not a big deal as many here would have you believe....
its like dancing on ice with lateral grip down near .68 lateral G’s. In many ways its fun...
that said the c8 z51 tures wont crack in the cold.
based on that assumption decide if you want snow tires ...
the summer tires only kn the c8 wont crack...
ill probably buy a nother set of take rims and out snows on them....
the cost is nothing as this meathod just extends the life of the summer tires,,
its bascially free with the exception if a $500 set if oem c8 takeoffs and the tire sensors....
ive driven fir years all year round on summer only tires...in the NY tri state area....its not a big deal as many here would have you believe....
its like dancing on ice with lateral grip down near .68 lateral G’s. In many ways its fun...
that said the c8 z51 tures wont crack in the cold.
Team Owner
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 25,583
Likes: 16,942
If you don't want to drive in snow, you don't need snow tires. UHP all-seasons offer excellent grip down to the single digits. I know, I've been running AS3+ for 3 winters. I have both PSS and AS3+ sets and run each 6 months a year.
Snow tires aren't even close to as good as the AS3+ on dry pavement. They'll also get you home in a light snow covering if you're ever surprised.
Snow tires aren't even close to as good as the AS3+ on dry pavement. They'll also get you home in a light snow covering if you're ever surprised.
Last edited by Foosh; Sep 28, 2019 at 12:50 PM.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 9,779
Likes: 18
From: King City Ontario
I'm in Canada and was told something appropriate to this question by my (very experienced) sales guy. And I believe some of the information above is now outdated.
In the past, Corvette would not ship to Canada in the winter months. He says that this was because the tires could get damaged in transit in extreme cold.
No more apparently. The new tires will withstand our winter temps without damage. My car (Z51) may arrive as soon as January.
In the past, Corvette would not ship to Canada in the winter months. He says that this was because the tires could get damaged in transit in extreme cold.
No more apparently. The new tires will withstand our winter temps without damage. My car (Z51) may arrive as soon as January.