posted on: August 8, 2022 11:45 am

5 Common Tire Problems to Avoid

Most tire problems are caused by a lack of consistent care. Regular maintenance checks can extend the life of your tires and help you spot cracks, bulges and low tread before they become costly and dangerous.

Here are five tire problems to be mindful of during routine checks.

#1 Bald Tires

Driving on bald tires increases your risk of sliding during braking, especially on a wet road. They’re also more susceptible to punctures because the low tread exposes more of the tire’s surface to debris.

The loss of tire tread is accelerated by underinflation, infrequent tire rotation and heavy braking, so practice safe driving habits and monitor your tire pressure to avoid premature wear and tear.

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#2 Uneven Tread Wear

Tire tread thins with use and age, so it’s normal to see wear over time. However, take note of any uneven wear, especially if your tires are relatively new, as it could signal early tire failure and pose a safety risk down the road.

Here are seven common types of tire wear patterns and their:

  • Outer edge wear – underinflation
  • Center tread wear – overinflation
  • Toe wear – poor alignment
  • Camber wear – poor alignment or tires not rolling perpendicular to the road
  • Patch wear – unbalanced wheels
  • Feathered wear – alignment issues
  • Cup or scallop wear – poor suspension, balance, alignment or tire quality

Uneven tire wear can also occur after hitting a pothole or curb. Be mindful of road conditions and check your tires at least once a month to ensure they’re inflated properly. It’s also important not to exceed the tire manufacturer’s recommended maximum pressure.

#3 Flat Spots

You may notice your tires roll roughly after your vehicle has been sitting for a while. That’s because tires can develop flat spots when the vehicle has been stationary in an environment with changing ambient temperatures.

The internal tire structure, the weight of your vehicle and the amount of time your car is immobile determine the severity of flat spots.

There are two types:

Temporary flat spots: Those can occur if your car has been sitting for a few days or weeks, but they usually go away after the tires heat up while rolling.

Semi-permanent flat spots: Your tires could develop semi-permanent flat spots if you store your vehicle for several months. It’s important to maintain tire pressure or even remove the tires while your vehicle is stationary for longer periods.

RELATED ARTICLE: Where Rubber Meets the Road: Understanding Rolling Resistance

#4 Squealing

Tires squeal for several reasons, including:

  • Hard acceleration and braking
  • Taking corners at a high speed
  • Tire type and quality
  • Rough road surfaces
  • Underinflation
  • Age or condition
  • Poor wheel alignment

Tire squealing is more common in front- and rear-wheel-drive vehicles. Give yourself plenty of time to accelerate and brake so your tires can grip the pavement.

#5 Vibrations

If your wheels vibrate during acceleration, your tires may be out of balance. Wheel weight can shift during tire installation, creating an uneven pressure distribution from one side to the other. Tires should be balanced after each rotation to avoid uneven or excess wear.

Bauer Built provides comprehensive automotive tire services, including common tire problems, repairs, rotations, mounting and balancing, and pressure monitoring. Find a location near you and schedule your service.

Categories: Bauer Built Blog