The tire sidewall helps in protecting the inside of the tires while also absorbing the shocks and bumps to provide a comfortable riding experience.
However, because your car tires are the only part of the car that is in direct contact with the road surface at all times, they not only experience wear and tear from friction, but also damage from road hazards such as uneven roads and debris.
If the damage is severe, you may experience a flat tire or the tire might explode. If the damage is long-lasting, the tire will deflate gradually leading to a tire sidewall blowout.
4 Common Tire Sidewall Damages
It is not easy to make out the kind of damage your tire sidewall has sustained. For this reason, if you notice any of the following signs of damage on the tire sidewall, it is best that you consult with a professional car technician and have the damaged tires inspected as soon as possible.
1. Sidewall Bulges
A protrusion or a bulge in the sidewall during inflation of the tires can happen due to the following reasons.
-In brand new tires, it could indicate a fault in the internal sidewall structure – which in all probability could be a manufacturing defect. If air leaks into the sidewall plies, it can lead to the sidewall bulge or protrusion.
-If this happens after a period of time, again it is because the sidewall plies are damaged either from debris on the road or due to driving on rough uneven roads.
In both cases, the damage is to the internal structure of tires. It is best to have the tires replaced before you drive anymore.
2. Punctured Tire(s)
If the tire is punctured by a nail or any other sharp object like a piece of glass, and if the puncture size is less than a quarter of an inch in diameter and it is in the tread area, the puncture can be fixed.
However, if the tire sidewall gets punctured, you will need to have the damaged tire(s) replaced.
3. Tire Sidewall Blowouts
A tire sidewall blowout can happen due to the following reasons;
Under-inflation – A certain pressure is required to hold the weight of the car and the passengers. Without the necessary pressure, the sidewalls will experience immense pressure causing the tires could fail any moment leading to a blowout which you certainly don’t want to happen during a Tucson summer.
Manufacturing defects – a sidewall blowout may happen even if your car or the tires are brand new due to a manufacturing defect. The tire(s) will need to be replaced immediately and the damaged tires should be sent back to the manufacturer.
Age of the tire – old tires are more vulnerable to damage and wear and tear. Over a period of time, even new tires will experience wear and tear and damage. In either case, if the internal structure is compromised in any way, it can lead to sidewall blowout.
Uneven tire wear – if you continue to drive on worn out tires or bald tires, you run the risk of greater damage from friction, heat, and uneven roads causing you to lose air rapidly and resulting in a blowout.
Overloaded car – can your car is overloaded it can stress the tires out excessively leading to overheating or it could lead to the tires exploding.
4. Deep Cuts or Scraps to the Sidewall
Over the course of driving your car, you may notice some sort of damage to the car tires due to a variety of reasons as mentioned above.
If you notice deep gouges or cuts to the sidewall, it is best to have your car technician assess the damage ASAP. If the damage is not severe, the tire will need to be monitored for further damage.
However, if the damage is substantial or severe, it is best to have the tire replaced. Safety comes first always!
5 Preventive Measures You Can Take
1. Ensure you check your tire pressure every month.
2. Avoid overloading your car.
3. Don’t drive if your tires are worn out – replace the tires.
4. Use tires with the recommended tire load and speed ratings for your car.
5. Have your car checked out by a professional car technician on a routine basis.
Car mechanics you can trust!
Have you noticed any of the above symptoms of sidewall damage to your car tires? If yes, then we can help. Give Accurate Services a call today at 520-620-9129 or schedule an appointment online as per your convenience!