How Long Can a Bulging Tire Be Used?
3 Answers
A bulging tire should no longer be used. This is because a tire bulge occurs when the cords inside the tire's inner ply layer break, causing air to push outward from the broken cords. Without the support of these cords, the elastic rubber forms a bulge under air pressure. In other words, a bulging tire indicates that the internal cords have already broken, and continued use may lead to a tire blowout. While a blowout at low speeds might still be manageable, it becomes extremely difficult to control at high speeds, posing a serious threat to personal safety. Therefore, even a slightly bulging tire should not be used and must be replaced promptly. Apart from quality and installation issues, most bulges are caused by external forces that break the cords. Common scenarios leading to cord breakage include: 1. Severe impacts on the tire: Driving at high speeds over rough roads, speed bumps, or surfaces with significant elevation changes. 2. Parking on uneven surfaces for extended periods: Some drivers park on sidewalks or curbs, which over time can severely damage the tire cords and cause bulging. 3. Driving with chronically low tire pressure: Insufficient tire pressure compresses the ply layer, causing fatigue and eventual cord breakage, leading to bulges. To extend tire lifespan and prevent bulging, it's essential to regularly check tire pressure, ensuring it stays within the recommended range—neither too high nor too low. When encountering harsh road conditions, reduce speed while driving. Additionally, always park on flat surfaces to minimize stress on the tires.
A bulging tire must never be used again. Last time I had a tire bulge, I took a chance and drove a short distance, only to have a blowout halfway, which scared me out of my wits. Thankfully, I didn’t hit anyone. A bulge means the internal fabric layers of the tire have broken, just like a balloon swelling up—it loses all its strength. Even hitting a small pebble while driving could cause it to burst. Don’t even think about how much longer you can use it; even driving one kilometer is extremely dangerous, especially on the highway. I immediately drove to a repair shop and got a new tire. I also learned to regularly check the sidewalls for scratches or signs of aging, as incorrect tire pressure can easily lead to such issues. Safety first—the cost of a new tire is much cheaper than car repairs or an accident.
A bulging tire indicates that the internal structure has been damaged, likely due to hitting a pothole or running over a curb. It is absolutely not worth the risk to continue using it, as the probability of a blowout is extremely high. In the best-case scenario, the wheel may deform and the vehicle could lose control; in the worst case, it could lead to an accident causing harm to both people and the vehicle. I recommend immediately stopping the use of the bulging tire. It's best to call a tow truck to replace the tire rather than driving to a repair shop to save money—it's too unsafe on the road. Pay attention to driving habits in daily life: slow down when going over speed bumps, avoid hitting hard objects with the tires, and regularly check tire pressure and wear to prevent issues. When replacing tires, choose reputable shops and avoid cheap products, as they are more prone to problems. Safety should always be the top priority—never take chances with your life.
