Plasticizer Migration Tire Staining

Tires use a specific material that can excrete plasticizer chemicals from the tires when they are hot from driving on the road. Here are a few tips to minimize the issue.

 

Causes

  • Polymer leaching from hot tires

  • Plastiziers are used in rubber to improve flexibility & traction

  • Stains are more common with soft compound tires like:

    • High Performance, Summer, Z-Rated, Motorcycle, Racing or Drag Radials, Aviation & other soft compounds

Stain Removal

  • Clean the stain off immediately to avoid permanent damage

  • Small stain might be removed using an Arm & Hammer Magic Eraser pad with clean water or rubbing the stain with a new dry Tennis ball

  • If more aggressive stains occur, use a D’Lemonine based citric acid degreaser mixed with lukewarm water while agitating the surface with a soft bristle Nylon brush then thoroughly clean water rinse (Do Not Use Simple Green)

Minimizing Stain Risk & Appearance

  • Coat the area where tires will rest black to hide stains

  • Lexan panels may be placed under the tires to avoid direct contact with the floor surface, reducing stain risk