What Does Tire Cupping Mean?
2 Answers
Tire cupping refers to the abnormal and severe wear on the inner or outer edges of one or more tires. The primary cause of tire cupping is incorrect wheel alignment data, which requires a four-wheel alignment adjustment. Otherwise, it will affect the tire's lifespan and compromise safe driving. The reasons for tire cupping include: 1. Inaccurate four-wheel alignment, leading to cupping when wheels on the same side operate or front and rear wheels are misaligned, causing abnormal friction and accelerated wear on specific tire areas due to vehicle self-correction; 2. Incorrect toe adjustment can also cause cupping—front wheels are slightly tilted inward at a toe-in angle, which is optimal for high-speed stability. All vehicles have their own toe angle, and improper adjustment can result in cupping; 3. Steering gear failure may also lead to cupping or pulling; 4. Uneven or deformed chassis can cause abnormal tire wear; 5. Mixing tires of different specifications or having significantly uneven tire pressure can result in cupping.
Uneven tire wear, commonly referred to as 'tire scrubbing,' is a phenomenon where one side of the tire wears out faster than the other. As someone who frequently works on cars, I often encounter this issue, which can stem from several causes: First, improper wheel alignment, meaning the four wheels aren't properly aligned, causing the tires to wear unevenly as the car drifts. Second, worn suspension components, such as aging shock absorbers that cause the wheels to wobble. Third, uneven tire pressure, where one tire is overinflated while another is underinflated. If you notice the steering wheel pulling to one side, the car vibrating, or unusual noises while driving, it's time to get it checked immediately. Ignoring this issue can lead to premature tire replacement, costing hundreds more, and worse, increases the risk of a blowout on the highway. Getting a wheel alignment every six months can prevent such problems, saving both money and hassle.
