Your tires are one of the most important parts of your vehicle, and yet you probably don’t think about them much unless you get a flat. Although tires can be a mundane topic, there are quite a few interesting facts about them. The auto repair team at Oak Hollow Tire Car Care Center in High Point, NC, shares a few of the most fascinating ones.

Did You Know These Tire Facts?

1. Tires Aren’t Naturally Black

Rubber tires are naturally white. Manufacturers add carbon black to the rubber during production to make tires stronger under tension. Carbon black also helps conduct heat away from your tires so they don’t wear down as quickly.

2. Tires Are Made of Over 200 Materials

Tires might look like they’re just rubber, but hundreds of other metals and fabrics go into tire production. Titanium and cobalt are examples of metals used to manufacture tires, and the fabrics include rayon, nylon, and polyester.

3. Your Tires Might Be Made of Dandelions One Day

Continental Tire® is currently testing the first tires where the tread is made of Russian dandelion rubber as a polymer. Russian dandelions can be grown in a year, whereas traditional rubber trees take seven years to grow. Continental plans to manufacture dandelion rubber consumer tires within the next five to 10 years.

4. 280 Million Tires Are Disposed of Every Year

Each year, Americans throw away over 280 million tires. Luckily, recycling programs put many of those old tires to good use. Many are melted down to repave asphalt, some are made into crumbs and added to playgrounds and recreational facilities, and others are recycled to make boat bumpers, carpet padding, and insulation.

5. Lego® Is the Largest Manufacturer of Tires

Although you probably won’t buying tires for your vehicle from them anytime soon, Lego is technically the largest manufacturer of tires. The toy company produces over 300 million tiny rubber tires a year.

When you need new tires, Oak Hollow Tire Car Care Center is the place to visit. They carry some of the top brands, including Bridgestone®, Firestone®, and Fuzion®, ensuring you get a reliable, long-lasting product. The ASE-certified mechanics also handle other auto repairs, such as brake service and oil changes. Visit their website or call (336) 841-6553 for more information.