Can a slightly bulging tire still be used?
3 Answers
A slightly bulging tire cannot be used because the bulge is caused by the breakage of the cord layers inside the tire, which allows air to push outward from the broken cords. Without the support of the cords, the elastic rubber will bulge under the pressure of the air. In other words, a bulging tire indicates that the internal cords have already broken, and continued use may lead to a tire blowout. To extend the lifespan of the tire, it is essential to avoid bulging as much as possible. Regularly check the tire pressure to ensure it remains within the normal range—neither too high nor too low. When driving, slow down when encountering rough road conditions, and always park the vehicle on a flat surface.
If I see a slight bulge on the tire, I can't use it anymore because the internal structure may already be damaged, such as a broken inner cord layer, causing a small bulge on the outside. This means the tire's pressure resistance has decreased, and even a slight impact or air pressure fluctuation while driving can easily cause a blowout. I've been driving for over 20 years and have encountered similar situations several times: once on the highway, I saw someone else's car have a blowout because they didn't replace the bulging tire, and the whole car almost flipped over. The risk is too great, especially when driving at high speeds or turning. So don't hesitate to spend the money—buying a new tire and replacing it is the best move. It's also important to develop the habit of checking the tire pressure weekly to ensure it's within the recommended range, avoiding hitting hard objects with the tires, and steering clear of potholes while driving to effectively prevent such issues. Safety is no small matter; investing a little money in tires is protection for yourself and your family.
Last time I noticed a small bulge on my car tire and thought something was off, so I asked a mechanic. He said even a slight bulge like that means you absolutely shouldn't keep driving. Turns out the internal tire cord layers were damaged, creating uneven pressure that could lead to a blowout at any moment. My veteran car buddies have all been through this - we all agree safety comes first. I remember one friend tried saving money by not replacing it, only to have a blowout while driving. The tow truck and rim repair ended up costing thousands, way more than new tires. Since then, I never take risks. Now I quickly check tire sidewalls for bulges before driving and maintain proper tire pressure. Prevention is key - avoiding potholes at speed or scraping curbs can greatly reduce this issue.
