Common Types of Tyre Damage and How to Prevent Them

Tyres are one of the most important components of your vehicle. They provide the necessary grip, control, and comfort while driving. However, tyre damage is a common issue that many drivers face, and when not addressed properly, it can lead to unsafe driving conditions, costly repairs, and reduced tyre lifespan. In this blog, we’ll explore the most common types of tyre damage, their causes, and how to prevent them to ensure your tyres remain in optimal condition for longer.

1. Punctures

What is it? A puncture occurs when a sharp object like a nail, screw, or glass piece pierces the tyre. The foreign object creates a hole, leading to a slow or rapid loss of air.

Causes:

• Driving over debris on the road.

• Sharp objects on the road.

• Worn-out treads making tyres more susceptible to punctures.

Prevention:

• Regularly check your tyres for any signs of debris lodged in the tread.

• Avoid driving through areas with visible nails, glass, or other sharp objects.

• Ensure your tyres are properly inflated. Under-inflated tyres are more vulnerable to punctures.

• Consider using run-flat tyres that allow you to drive for a limited distance after a puncture.

2. Sidewall Damage

What is it? Sidewall damage refers to cuts, bulges, or tears on the side of the tyre. The sidewall is the part of the tyre that connects the tread to the rim, and damage here can be dangerous, as it affects the structural integrity of the tyre.

Causes:

• Hitting curbs or potholes at high speed.

• Driving with under-inflated tyres.

• Overloading the vehicle, which places excessive pressure on the tyres.

Prevention:

• Be cautious when driving near curbs or tight spaces to avoid scraping the sidewalls.

• Avoid high-speed driving over potholes, gravel roads, or uneven surfaces.

• Regularly check tyre pressure and ensure your tyres are not under-inflated.

• Stick to the vehicle’s recommended load capacity to avoid putting extra strain on your tyres.

3. Uneven Wear

What is it? Uneven tyre wear refers to one part of the tyre wearing down faster than the other. This can occur on the inner, outer, or middle part of the tread. Uneven wear is often a sign of an underlying problem with the vehicle.

Causes:

• Misaligned wheels or improper wheel balancing.

• Under-inflation or over-inflation.

• Faulty suspension components.

• Incorrect driving habits (such as sharp turning or rapid acceleration).

Prevention:

• Regularly have your wheels aligned and balanced. Poor alignment can cause the tyres to wear unevenly.

• Check your tyre pressure at least once a month, and maintain the correct pressure according to your vehicle’s specifications.

• Rotate your tyres regularly (every 6,000 to 8,000 km) to ensure even wear across all tyres.

• Maintain proper suspension to ensure it is not contributing to uneven wear.

4. Blistering and Bulging

What is it? Blistering or bulging occurs when air gets trapped between the layers of the tyre, causing a visible bump or bulge on the surface. This issue can be dangerous, as it can lead to a tyre blowout.

Causes:

• Under-inflation.

• Driving over potholes or rough terrain at high speed.

• Manufacturing defects (rare but possible).

• Tyres that are too old or have been subjected to excessive wear.

Prevention:

• Always check tyre pressure regularly and ensure it matches the manufacturer’s recommendations.

• Avoid driving on rough roads or hitting large potholes.

• Replace tyres that show signs of blistering or bulging immediately.

• Ensure tyres are replaced before they reach the end of their lifespan, as older tyres are more prone to defects.

5. Cracking or Weathering

What is it? Cracking occurs when the rubber of the tyre becomes brittle and begins to crack, particularly around the sidewalls and tread. This is often a result of exposure to UV rays, ozone, or extreme temperature changes.

Causes:

• Exposure to harsh weather conditions (heat, sunlight, and cold temperatures).

• Driving on under-inflated tyres for long periods.

• Tyres that are not used regularly (for example, in vehicles that are not driven frequently).

Prevention:

• Store your vehicle in a garage or shaded area to limit exposure to UV rays and extreme temperatures.

• Rotate your tyres regularly to ensure they wear evenly and don’t remain stationary for too long.

• Check for cracks or signs of weathering regularly, and replace tyres that show significant damage.

• Keep tyres inflated at the recommended pressure to reduce the risk of cracking.

6. Tread Separation

What is it? Tread separation is when the tread layer of the tyre begins to separate from the rest of the tyre. This can cause a dangerous loss of traction and control, especially at high speeds.

Causes:

• Manufacturing defects or poor-quality tyres.

• Overloading the vehicle or under-inflating the tyres.

• Driving on tyres that are too old or have been subjected to excessive wear.

Prevention:

• Purchase high-quality tyres from trusted brands like EverTyres to ensure you’re getting a product that meets safety standards.

• Avoid overloading your vehicle, as excessive weight can put a strain on the tyres.

• Keep tyres properly inflated and check their condition regularly.

• Replace old tyres before they become a risk.

7. Tyre Blowouts

What is it? A tyre blowout is the sudden loss of air pressure, which can cause the tyre to rupture and deflate rapidly. Blowouts are extremely dangerous and can lead to accidents if not managed correctly.

Causes:

• Under-inflated tyres, which generate excessive heat and lead to premature wear.

• Overloaded vehicles that place too much pressure on the tyres.

• Driving over sharp objects, potholes, or other road hazards.

• Worn-out tyres with minimal tread.

Prevention:

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