Is it a problem if there's a small bulge on the side of the tire?
2 Answers
When a tire bulges, it indicates that the internal cord layers are damaged. Since cord layer damage is irreparable, a bulging tire should not continue to be used and must be replaced promptly to prevent the risk of a blowout. Causes of tire bulging: Tire bulging occurs when the internal cord layers are damaged, causing uncontrolled air pressure inside the tire. This results in uneven force distribution on the outer tire, with the areas under higher pressure protruding to form a bulge. This is a common type of tire wear. If not addressed promptly, the bulge may suddenly rupture due to accelerated rolling or excessive friction heat, leading to an explosion. Statistics show that the vast majority of tire blowouts are caused by bulges. Irreparable damage: Neither bulges nor sidewall damage can be repaired by patching. The cord layers in these areas are already broken, and patching merely involves applying a rubber piece inside, which cannot fully restore the cord layers. As a result, the tire will bulge again in the same spot after some time, or even blow out, posing significant safety hazards. Additionally, the sidewalls of tires are constantly undergoing deformation and recovery while driving, making patches prone to detachment. The best solution is to replace the tire promptly.
A bulge on the sidewall of a tire is no small matter, as I've personally experienced with my own car. This is usually caused by a break in the cord ply, much like how a ruptured blood vessel can cause internal bleeding. Think about it - the sidewall is the weakest part of the tire and has to withstand tremendous centrifugal force at high speeds. I once ignored this issue and ended up with a sudden blowout on the highway, which nearly caused a major accident. Now I always tell my friends that even the slightest bulge means immediate tire replacement. Tires are the only part of the car that makes contact with the road - you can't cut corners when it comes to safety. Don't believe anyone who says it's still usable; these things can fail suddenly without warning.
