Can a tire with a small bulge be driven on the highway?
2 Answers
Tires with small bulges should not be driven on the highway. A bulging tire is a major safety hazard that can easily lead to a blowout. Therefore, once a tire bulge is detected, do not consider any form of repair; the tire should be replaced as soon as possible. Tire bulges can be categorized into two types: cord breakage bulges and delamination bulges. Delamination bulges mainly include three types: crown separation, shoulder separation, and bead separation. Bulging is one of the most common types of tire damage, and there are many causes for it. Typically, bulging occurs due to unexpected severe impacts during use. If a tire develops multiple bulges, it is often due to quality issues.
Once I noticed a small bulge on my friend's tire. He thought it was nothing and insisted on driving on the highway, but soon after, the tire blew out, causing the car to lose control and nearly flip into a ditch. A tire bulge usually indicates broken internal cords, often caused by hitting potholes or curbs. At high speeds, the combination of velocity, pressure, and heat can exacerbate such damage, significantly increasing the risk of sudden blowouts. If an accident occurs, it can lead to severe vehicle damage, injuries, and even endanger others. My advice is: never take chances. Even a small bulge warrants immediate tire replacement. Make it a habit to check your tires regularly, feeling the sidewalls for unusual bulges, and maintaining proper tire pressure can help prevent this issue. Safe driving is paramount—don’t regret trying to save a few bucks. A new tire costs just a few hundred yuan and can be quickly replaced at a repair shop. Remember, highways are no joke; addressing issues promptly is the smart move.
