A tyre blowout can be a terrifying experience for any driver on the road. Occurring when a tyre suddenly bursts or loses air pressure, a blowout is a dangerous incident that can cause a driver to lose control, potentially leading to serious accidents and even fatalities. It is crucial for all drivers to understand the dangers of a tyre blowout and take necessary precautions to prevent them from happening. Here we will explore several factors that may cause a blowout and things you can do to minimise the risk.
Underinflated or Overinflated Tyres
When the air pressure inside the tyre is lower than the recommended level specified by the manufacturer it puts excessive stress on the tyre structure and can cause the sidewalls to flex more leading to overheating and potential failure.
While underinflation is a more common cause, overinflation can also lead to a blowout. When a tyre is overinflated, the centre of the tread bears most of the load, causing it to wear unevenly and potentially weaken.
A simple way to ensure your tyres are properly inflated is with the installation of a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS). This helpful device continually monitors the air pressure in your tyres in real time and alerts you to any changes so they can be swiftly rectified.
Overloading
Carrying excessive weight beyond the tyre’s load-carrying capacity can cause the tyre to generate excessive heat, and this can lead to a blowout.
Potholes and Road Hazards
Hitting a pothole, curb, or other road hazard at high speed can cause severe damage to the tyre, such as bulges, cuts, or internal structural damage. When the structure of a tyre becomes weak, it can eventually result in a dangerous blowout.
Old and Worn Out Tyres
Even the most expensive and highest quality tyres have a limited lifespan, tyres simply aren’t designed to last forever. As tyres age, it’s only natural they will suffer some wear and tear, and the rubber can degrade making them more susceptible to failure. Additionally, older tyres with insufficient tread depth can be more prone to blowouts, especially in wet or slippery conditions.
Overheating
Continuous driving at high speeds or for long distances without allowing tyres to cool down can cause their internal temperature to rise excessively. This can weaken the structure of the tyre and increase the risk of a blowout.
Manufacturing Defects
Although rare, manufacturing defects such as weak spots, belt separation, or faulty materials can lead to a tyre blowout. Always make sure you purchase tyres from a reputable tyre dealership, as they are more likely to be aware of any potential issues with tyres from particular suppliers or batches.
Regular tyre maintenance, such as checking air pressure, inspecting for signs of wear or damage, and replacing tyres when they are old or worn, are just some of the ways you can help prevent blowouts and ensure greater on-road safety for yourself and other road users. An easy way to maintain the safety of your tyres is with a high-quality tyre pressure monitoring system from Safe T Tyre. Your safety is our top priority, our TPMS is cost-effective, simple to install, and it will ensure that you never have to drive on underinflated (or overinflated) tyres without knowing it. Purchase yours today – contact us online or call 1800 499 383 to speak with our friendly and knowledgeable staff.