One of the most common tyre problems below will be experienced by all motorists at some point; it’s inevitable. This could range from being a puncture to worn tyres or misalignment. Here at Longbridge Tyres, we have put together a helpful guide detailing the most common tyre problems that you will encounter at some point in your motoring life. 

This list also helps you spot the signs of deterioration quicker, meaning you can reduce the dangerous impact that decreases the life of your tyres. It also means that you can get your tyres repaired or replaced when a problem has been identified; this ensures that your vehicle is safe to drive at all times.

7 Most Common Tyre Problems

• Over inflation

If you have over inflated your tyres then they will not perform safely. This is because the more you inflate, the more difficult it becomes to maintain contact between the road and the tread, which helps establish grip. Alongside this, too much pressure inside the tyres causes stress on the structure. Both over inflation and too much pressure causes a reduction in the lifespan of the tyre.

• Under inflation

On the flip side, too little inflation is another common tyre problem. This could be due to lots of drivers not knowing what the correct tyre inflation is for their vehicle. But, having the correct tyre pressure has a significant impact on lots of different aspects of your comfort and safety when driving. 

Under inflation causes many issues including, but not limited to, reducing aquaplaning resistance and delayed and less precise resistance of the tyres.

• Cracking and bulging due to age, heat, water, degradation or tyre pressure

This type of tyre problem arises from hitting potholes, curbs or debris found on the road. If you have under or over inflation already present in your tyres, then this can cause a greater risk of damage from the impact. When tyre cracking occurs this is usually due to UV rays or extreme heat, age, water (such as driving on wet roads), degradation and tyre pressure (e.g. inflation).

• Misalignment

Misalignment is not always easy to detect, however, there are some key signs to look out for that may indicate that your car wheels are misaligned. These are uneven tyre wear on the front rears; your car pulling to one side; and lastly, a crooked steering wheel.

• Cuts and punctures

Puncture damage usually occurs as a result of a particular road hazard such as a screw or nail in the road. Typically, this type of damage is not the fault of the driver.

• Emergency brake damage

If you have to use your emergency brakes then this can lead to almost instant tyre wear. This is because as a tyre stops rotating it causes excess friction, and wears on the part of the tread that rubs against the ground. But, vehicles that are fitted with an anti-locking braking system don’t have this problem.

• General wear and tear

Over time, tyres experience general wear and tear. One thing to monitor is your tyres tread depth, ensuring that it is the legal limit. To remain safe on the road, tyres must be replaced before they reach that level (tread depth of 1.6mm). 

Contact Longbridge Tyres

If you are experiencing tyre problems, please don’t hesitate to contact our team today by calling us on 0121 457 7582, or through filling out our online contact form and we’ll be in touch.