Tire Warning Signs: 10 Cues You Are About To Have A Blowout And What To Do
Having a tire blowout is scary and it can be one of the most dangerous events you can experience on the road. It can lead to loss of control of your vehicle. Although it usually happens suddenly, there are plenty of things you can look out for to prevent this catastrophic event. Here are 10 signs your tire might fail soon and what you should do to avoid it.
1. Low Tire Pressure Keeps Coming Back
If you constantly have to add air to your tires, it could be a sign of a slow leak or internal damage. Underinflated tires cause excessive heat buildup, which weakens the rubber and increases the risk of a blowout. Potholes, nails, or worn-out valve stems can all contribute to slow leaks. Always check your tire pressure with a reliable gauge and compare it to the recommended PSI in your owner’s manual.
2. Bulges or Blisters on the Sidewall
A bulge or blister on the tire’s sidewall means that the internal structure has been compromised. These weak spots form when air escapes from the inner layers of the tire, creating a bubble. Hitting a curb or pothole can cause these bulges, weakening the sidewall and making a blowout inevitable. If you notice any bulges, replace the tire immediately—continuing to drive on it is extremely dangerous.
3. Uneven Tread Wear
If your tires are wearing down unevenly, it’s a sign that something is off with your alignment, suspension, or inflation levels. Excessive wear on one side of the tire weakens it, making it more susceptible to a blowout. Rotate your tires regularly and inspect the tread to ensure even wear.
4. Cracks in the Rubber
Tires naturally deteriorate over time, especially when exposed to extreme temperatures and UV rays. Cracks in the rubber indicate that the tire is drying out and losing flexibility, making it more prone to sudden failure. If you see visible cracks on the tread or sidewall, your tires are at risk of a blowout.
5. Excessive Vibration While Driving
A smooth ride suddenly turning into a shaky, vibrating mess is never a good sign. Excessive vibration can indicate an issue with your tire balance, alignment, or even internal tire separation. If you feel unusual vibrations, especially in the steering wheel, pull over and inspect your tires.
6. Exposed Steel Belts or Cords
If you can see metal strands or fabric cords poking through your tire’s surface, your tire is dangerously worn out. This means the rubber layers have worn away, leaving the internal structure exposed. At this stage, a blowout is almost guaranteed if you continue driving.
7. Overloaded Vehicle Strain
Carrying excessive weight puts additional pressure on your tires, making them overheat and increasing the likelihood of a blowout. Every tire has a weight limit—exceeding it causes premature wear and weakens the sidewalls. Check your vehicle’s weight capacity before loading up for road trips or hauling heavy cargo.
8. Frequent Punctures or Repairs
If you’ve patched or plugged the same tire multiple times, its structural integrity may already be compromised. Every repair weakens the rubber and increases the likelihood of failure under stress. A tire with too many patches is more prone to blowouts, especially at high speeds.
9. Excessive Heat on the Tire Surface
If your tires feel unusually hot to the touch after driving, it’s a sign they are overheating. Heat causes the rubber to break down faster, weakening the structure and increasing the risk of a blowout. Long drives at high speeds, underinflation, and hot weather all contribute to excessive heat buildup.
10. Loud Humming or Thumping Sounds
Unusual noises coming from your tires can indicate internal damage, separation, or uneven tread wear. A thumping sound may mean a flat spot or bulge is forming, which can lead to a blowout. If you hear strange noises, inspect your tires immediately or visit a mechanic.
Stay Ahead of a Blowout
Tire blowouts don’t happen all that often, but being able to recognize the signs can quite literally save your life. Perform regular inspections of your tires and stay on top of maintenance. This is always the best way to avoid incidents like this. Ignoring tire problems can lead to significant issues. Be proactive and you’ll stay safe!
Read More
9 Things You Should Never Say If You’re Stopped For Speeding
8 Things You Should Never Reveal To A Mechanic
Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.