A tire bubble, also referred to as a blister, is a frequent problem that can happen. It happens when the layers of a tire separate, resulting in a bulge on the sidewall or tread of the tire. A tire bubble can take the form of a tiny bump or a sizable, distorted area.
A tire bubble can significantly impact a vehicle’s performance and safety, despite the fact that it might not initially seem to be a serious issue. This article will go over the various reasons why tire bubbles occur, how to avoid them, and what to do if you notice one on your car.
Mechanical Causes
Punctures or cuts in the tire are one of the most typical reasons why there are tire bubbles. These can be brought on by hitting a pothole or curb, as well as by road debris like glass or nails. Over time, punctures can cause a bubble in a tire and weaken its structure. Inadequate tire installation is another mechanical reason for tire bubbles. It is possible for a tire to wear unevenly and develop a bubble if it is not mounted or balanced correctly on the wheel.
Over- or under-inflation of the tire is another mechanical reason for tire bubbles. It is crucial to maintain the tire pressure that is suggested for your car in the owner’s manual or on the sidewall of the tire. Underinflated tires can result in uneven tread wear and a bubble, while overinflated tires can put an excessive amount of stress on the sidewall. Last but not least, tire bubbles are frequently brought on by worn-out tires. Bubbles can form in tires that have been used for a long time or that have been so worn down that their structural integrity has been lost.
Environmental Causes
Exposure to extremely cold or hot temperatures is another reason for tire bubbles. Long-term exposure to high temperatures can weaken and cause bubbles to form in tires. The rubber in a tire can become brittle in cold temperatures, which can result in a bubble. Additionally, driving on unlevel or rocky terrain can result in tire bubbles. These surfaces have the potential to overstress tires, weakening the sidewall and resulting in bubble development.
The tire’s continued use may also cause a bubble. Tires’ rubber can start to deteriorate with continued use, which can result in a bubble. Finally, chemical exposure, like exposure to road salt, can deteriorate a tire and cause a bubble to form. During the winter, road salt is frequently used to melt snow and ice on the roads, but it can also deteriorate tire rubber and result in bubbles.
Manufacturing Defects
Tire bubbles may occasionally be brought on by manufacturing flaws. Bubbles may form as a result of defective materials used in tire construction or improper tire construction. Tire bubbles can also be caused by poor quality control during the manufacturing process. These kinds of bubbles are frequently covered by the warranty offered by the manufacturer.