Is Bulging of New Car Tires Covered by Warranty?
2 Answers
When bulging occurs in new car tires, it is necessary to identify the cause of the bulging. If the bulging is caused by improper use, it is generally not covered by warranty. Here are some precautions for using car tires: 1. Wheel Alignment: If you notice uneven tire wear or severe shaking while driving, it is essential to check the tire alignment promptly. Failure to address this issue can affect the vehicle's handling and may even lead to dangerous situations. 2. Regularly Check Tire Pressure: Abnormal tire pressure can directly impact tire performance. Low tire pressure increases friction with the ground, accelerating tire wear, while high tire pressure may lead to blowouts. It is recommended to check tire pressure at least once a month. 3. Inspect Tire Wear: Car tires have wear indicators. When the tire reaches the wear indicator, it should be replaced immediately. Typically, wear indicators are designed at a remaining tread depth of about 1.6 millimeters. Overly worn tires are hazardous when driving on wet surfaces as their water drainage capability is significantly reduced, severely affecting traction and compromising driving safety. Avoid hitting obstacles while driving to prevent tire bulging.
I find tire bulges to be a tricky issue when it comes to new car warranties. Generally, the manufacturer's warranty for a new car primarily covers core components like the engine or electronic systems, while tires, as wear-and-tear items, often have their warranty terms specified separately or provided by the tire brand itself. Most bulges are not caused by manufacturing defects but by hitting potholes, insufficient tire pressure, or improper driving. If your new car's tire has a bulge, I recommend first checking the warranty documents and tire manual that came with the car—in many cases, this isn't covered under warranty and requires out-of-pocket replacement. But don't take it lightly: bulges significantly increase the risk of a blowout, especially at high speeds. I always advise stopping immediately to inspect and heading to a dealership or professional repair shop as soon as possible. Additionally, developing habits like regularly checking tire pressure and avoiding road potholes can greatly reduce such issues.
