Can a Tire Blowout from Hitting a Pothole Be Repaired?
2 Answers
Tire blowouts caused by hitting potholes cannot continue to be used, as the blowout has severely damaged the tire sidewall and compromised the internal structure of the tire. Additionally, it is important to note that such blowouts cannot be repaired. Even if repaired, continued use poses significant safety hazards, and replacement is strongly recommended. Additional information: Other situations where repair is not possible: sidewall damage; puncture holes in the tread exceeding 6mm in diameter; damaged or deformed bead; tread deformation; rubber corroded by chemicals; tire damage from running flat. Precautions: Before setting off, carefully check tire pressure, tread condition, sidewall bulges, and overall tire wear. While driving, avoid speeding or overloading to prevent blowouts due to excessive tire stress. Furthermore, when encountering potholes or uneven road surfaces, try to avoid them if possible; if unavoidable, slow down and proceed with caution.
Having driven for many years, I've seen quite a few similar cases. A tire blowout from hitting a pothole is often accompanied by sidewall bulges or broken cord plies—this type of damage is basically beyond repair. The tire sidewall itself is thin, and the impact causes internal structural damage. Even if you patch it, it can't withstand the repeated deformation while driving, posing a huge safety risk. Once, I encountered a driver who insisted on repairing such a damaged tire, only for it to burst again on the highway, nearly causing a rollover. My advice is to just replace the tire outright and check if the rim is deformed while you're at it. The impact from hitting potholes often damages suspension components as well. Also, make sure your daily tire pressure isn't too high, and slowing down before hitting rough patches is key to preventing blowouts.