Can You Still Drive with a Slightly Bulging Tire?
3 Answers
Tires with slight bulges should not be driven on; it is recommended to replace them. Below are the reasons for tire bulging: 1. Tire aging: Tires that have been used for too long and have passed their expiration date may develop bulges when hitting rocks or speed bumps while driving. 2. Excessive tire pressure: Overinflated tires reduce the contact area with the ground, leading to premature wear. During use, due to rapid rolling or poor heat dissipation, the tread temperature rises, which can cause the tire to bulge. If a tire has a bulge, it is advised not to continue using it. Bulging tires cannot be repaired or patched because the inner cord layers may be broken. Even if repaired, the bulge may reappear after some time, posing a serious risk of a blowout, which can create significant hazards while driving.
After driving for many years, I've encountered tire bulging issues, and even a slight bulge is absolutely not recommended to continue driving with. That small protrusion is no minor matter—it indicates a break in the tire's inner ply, leading to unstable tire pressure and a high risk of a blowout. A blowout at high speeds is especially dangerous, potentially causing loss of control, with minor consequences like vehicle damage or severe ones like personal injury. I once witnessed a friend's car with a bulging tire blow out on the highway, nearly causing a rollover. The repair and towing costs amounted to thousands, making it far more economical to replace the tire early. During routine checks, feel the tire sidewall with your hand—bulging areas will feel soft and can be easily identified. Safety comes first—don't drive on it. Get it replaced at a professional shop as soon as possible, and have the wheel alignment checked to see if hitting a pothole caused the issue to worsen. Remember, tires are the bottom line of safety—don't gamble with your life. Saving a few hundred bucks isn't worth the risk.
As an ordinary driver, I once noticed a small bulge on my front tire and thought it was minor, so I figured driving short distances in the city for a few days would be fine. However, after commuting for three days at speeds below 40 km/h, I felt the ride was unusually bumpy. Later, a mechanic explained that the bulge indicated internal structural damage, which could lead to a blowout at any moment, especially during sudden braking or hitting potholes. He recommended immediate replacement, and I realized the potential danger. Looking back, driving with a minor bulge is like gambling—if it bursts, calling a tow truck and wasting time would be even more troublesome. My advice is to stop and check the tire pressure right away. If you must drive to a repair shop, go slowly on flat roads, keep the trip under 20 minutes, but don’t take the risk. Regular tire maintenance can reduce the chances of bulges.
