A tire bulge is a condition where the tire's sidewall starts to protrude outwards. This can happen for several reasons, but it's due to low tire pressure or hitting something sharp.
Why Is A Tire Bulge Dangerous?
A tire bulge is dangerous because it weakens the structure of the tire. This can cause the tire to burst or blow out while you're driving, leading to a serious accident. It's important to check your tires regularly for any bulging signs and keep them properly inflated. If you do notice a bulge, don't drive on it and have it fixed as soon as possible.
What Causes A Tire Bulge?
There are several reasons why a tire might develop a bulge. The most common reason is low tire pressure. When your tires are low on air, they're more likely to flex and bend, which can cause the sidewall to start protruding outwards.
Another common cause of tire bulges is hitting something sharp. This could be a pothole, a curb, or even driving over rough terrain. When the tire hits something hard, it can cause the sidewall to bulge outwards.
In some cases, tire bulges can also be caused by excessive heat. If the tires get too hot, they can start to expand, and the sidewall can bulge outwards. This is more common in racing tires driven at high speeds for extended periods.
How To Prevent Tire Bulges?
There are several things you can do to prevent tire bulges from happening. The most important thing is to keep your tires properly inflated. Check your tire pressure at least once a month and fill them up if they're low.
You should also avoid hitting any sharp objects while driving. This means being careful when driving over potholes, curbs, and rough terrain. If you can't avoid hitting something, slow down as much as possible before impact.
Finally, try to keep your tires from getting too hot. If possible, park in the shade or use a tire cover to keep the heat from building up. This is especially important if you're going to be driving at high speeds for an extended period.
In Summary
Tire bulges are dangerous and can cause blowouts or accidents. Keep your tires properly inflated, avoid hitting sharp objects, and don't let them get too hot to help prevent bulges from happening.
If you need tire repair or replacement, give our auto repair shop a call today!