This cracking often doesn't start until the tires get fairly old (mileage doesn't have a lot to do with it). However, environmental factors, chemical contaminants, the sun, etc. Can all have an effect on how long tires last before this starts to happen. Over the past 5 years Michelin has had issues with cracking. We've never received any explanation from them as to a cause, and we, as a Michelin dealer, have replaced quite a few tires under warranty because of it. Personally, I would contact Michelin North America and explain your case to them. MICHELIN ® tires are designed to maximize your safety and driving pleasure. The garage mechanic told me that I need to change my rims to mount winter tires, is it true? No, if the size of the winter tires is the same as the summer tires, there is no obligation to change rims or wheels. If the size is different you may have to change rims.
Michelin Tire Cracking
Tires take a serious beating—constant 'stretching' as they roll along the road, exposure to harsh chemicals (gasoline, oil, acid, etc.), UV rays and heat. That rubber is suffering so that you can travel! Almost all tires will begin to exhibit small cracks in the sidewall after a short period of time. Is it time to worry?
The outer layer of rubber on the sidewall is simply a sealing layer to keep the elements away from the inner (structural) part of the tire—in other words, those unsightly cracks are purely cosmetic. If your tires start to get really deep cracks after 3-5 years, you might consider replacing them for peace of mind. If you haven't worn out a set of tires in 5-8 years, it's worth replacing them for safety's sake, even if there is still good tread left on the tires.
It is important to note that recreational vehicles—like your VW camper, maybe?—are more subject to tire cracking than everyday drivers. Long periods of 'sitting' causes the rubber to dry out, and when you take your camper out for a drive, the rubber 'splits' as it gets worked on the road. Again, this is nothing to worry about unless the cracks are exceptionally deep.
The bottom line is this: In almost every case we've seen, you do not need to worry—you just need to get out and camp!
Michelin Tire Cracking Guide
I just replaced all 4 tires on my 2000 Olds Silhouette (van).
All 4 tires had heat cracks between each tread all the way around.
At first I saw small cracks starting, then after a few months and one trip down to MB, South Carolina and back (2200K miles) those small cracks all joined up (end to end).
Those tires only had about 35k miles on them on tires with a 75k expected life.
None of the mileage was done on any road other than asphalt.
Are high speed driving and UV rays the only reason for this failure?
I have BF Goodrich Precepts on now and find these great for holding the road in heavy rain.
Plus, they are quieter than the old ones (which turned out to be noisy from the get go).