Question

What causes tire blowouts?

Tire blowouts are scary and dangerous. Knowing what causes tire blowouts can help you stay safe on the road.

Underinflated tires

The most common cause of tire blowouts is improper inflation. When tires are not inflated correctly, they can wear out quickly, which may lead to a blowout. Make sure you check tire pressure frequently and keep it inflated at the ideal pressure levels. In some vehicles, you can find this information on a sticker near the driver’s side door, or consult your mechanic.

High-speed driving  

Anticipate a tire blowout anytime if you’re someone who drives fast. The high speeds can heat your tires and cause damage to them over time. Always stick to your tire’s speed rating, and you can find the rating on the sidewall of your tires.

Overloading your vehicle   

The excitement of a vacation can make you stuff your car with unwanted items. However, there’s only so much weight your vehicle can carry. Overloading your car puts the tires under stress and ultimately causes them to blow. To prevent overloading, check the load-carrying capacity of the tires and pack accordingly. We also recommend getting rid of junk inside the car and carrying only the necessary items.  

Punctured tires   

Driving with a punctured tire is like walking on a field filled with land mines; you never know when it’s going to explode. Some car owners drive around with a puncture, unaware of the consequences. Regular checks will help spot a punctured tire. Also, it’s best to add your tires to your car maintenance checklist.

Worn-out tires   

If your tires look old and worn out, change them right away to prevent blowouts. Uneven tread and wear can cause a blowout at any time. Car care experts recommend changing your tires every six years.

Slamming into potholes   

Hitting a pothole can damage your tires and lead to a blowout. The risk of a tire blowout is higher if you’re driving with worn-out tires. While you might not experience a blowout right after going over a pothole, the impact can still cause significant damage to the tire. Avoid potholes, road debris, and other obstacles while driving. Slamming into potholes is a bad driving habit that can also damage other parts of your car.

Manufacturing defects 

Tire manufacturing defects can sometimes cause a blowout. Even if the outside of your tire looks fine, there could be serious defects inside. Your mechanic might spot a manufacturing defect during maintenance, so it’s important to have regular checks. Poorly installed tires can also blow out. If you find it hard to install tires yourself, visit a professional for help.