9 Tyre Issues That Might Lead to a Severe Car Accident if Not Fixed
It's no secret that a car is only as good as its tyres. And while most drivers are conscientious about keeping their tyres in good condition, few know the serious consequences of neglecting tyre maintenance. For example, did you know that under-inflated tyres can increase fuel consumption by up to 3%?
Or that over 50% of accidents involving serious injury or death are caused by tyre-related problems? That is why proper tyre maintenance is crucial to ensuring your safety on the road and the durability of your vehicle. This article will discuss nine tyre issues that might lead to a severe car accident if not fixed.
Unbalanced Tyres
If your tyres are unbalanced, it means that they are not evenly weighted around the circumference of the tyre.
This can cause several problems, including:
- Vibrations in the steering wheel, seat, or floorboard: Unbalanced tyres can cause your car to vibrate, making it difficult to control.
- Premature tyre wear: Unbalanced tyres will wear down faster than normal, leading to a need for premature replacement.
- Decreased fuel efficiency: Unbalanced tyres can decrease your car's fuel efficiency by up to 10%.
- Increased risk of accidents: Unbalanced tyres can make your car more difficult to handle, increasing the risk of an accident.
Worn-Out Tyres
Worn-out tyres are one of the most common causes of car accidents. Tyres get worn out because of normal wear and tear and from improper inflation, improper alignment, or overloading. This can be extremely dangerous, especially in wet or icy conditions.
They can cause many problems, including:
- Reduced traction: Worn-out tyres have less tread, which means they will have reduced traction on the road. This can make it difficult to stop or turn, increasing the risk of an accident.
- Increased risk of punctures: Worn-out tyres are more likely to suffer from punctures, which can cause a blowout and loss of control.
- Decreased fuel efficiency: Worn-out tyres are less aerodynamic and have increased rolling resistance, decreasing fuel efficiency by up to 10%.
Incorrectly Inflated Tyres
Under-inflated tyres can lead to premature wear and tear, reducing the tyre's lifespan. In addition, such tyres increase fuel consumption as the car has to work harder to move the tyre's weight. Under-inflation can also cause the tyre to overheat, leading to a blowout.
Over-inflation can also cause problems, decreasing the tyre's contact with the road. This can lead to a loss of grip, making it more difficult to control the vehicle. In extreme cases, over-inflation can cause the tyre to burst. So it is important to check your tyres regularly and ensure they are properly inflated.
Bent or Damaged Wheels
Worn or damaged rims are not only an eyesore, but they can also lead to many problems. Such rims can cause tyre blowouts. If a tyre blows out while driving, it can be extremely dangerous.
Secondly, damaged rims can make it difficult to control your vehicle. This is especially true in wet weather conditions. Poorly maintained rims can also reduce fuel efficiency. On top of that, if your tyres are in poor condition, it will take more effort to keep your car moving, which means using more fuel.
Furthermore, damaged rims can put extra strain on other parts of your car, such as the brakes and suspension. In short, there are many good reasons to keep your wheels in good condition.
Improperly Aligned Wheels
If your wheels are not properly aligned, it will lead to premature tyre wear. In addition to that, misaligned wheels can cause your car to pull to either side. This makes it more difficult to control the vehicle and increases the risk of an accident.
Furthermore, improperly aligned wheels can decrease fuel efficiency by up to 10%. So if you want to save money, make sure you contact wheel alignment Dubai experts.
Road Hazards
Many potential road hazards can damage your car tyres. Potholes are a major cause as they can cause the tyre to lose air or become distorted. Loose gravel or sand can also cause punctures and abrasions to the tyre's sidewall.
In addition, glass and metal debris can also puncture tyres, leaving you stranded on the side of the road. To avoid these potential hazards, it is important to drive cautiously and be aware of your surroundings. If you hit a pothole or encounter other debris, inspect your tyres for damage as soon as possible and repair or replace them if necessary.
Curbing
If you're not careful, it's easy to accidentally hit the curb when parking. This can damage your tyres, as well as the wheels. In severe cases, curbing can cause a blowout. So if you hit the curb, pull over and inspect your tyres for any damage.
Extreme Temperatures
Extreme temperatures can cause problems for your car tyres. In summer, the heat can cause the tyres to expand and become deformed. In winter, the cold can cause the tyre pressure to drop.
To avoid these problems, it is important to check your tyre pressure regularly and adjust it accordingly.
Follow these tips to gauge the tyre pressure:
- In summer: Check the tyre pressure when the tyres are cold, such as first thing in the morning.
- In winter: Inspect the tyre pressure when the tyres are warm, such as after driving for a few hours.
Spinning Tyres
If you're stuck in mud or snow, it's common to have your tyres spinning in an attempt to get out of it. However, this can cause serious damage to your tyres. When you spin your tyres, they heat up and become deformed. In addition, the tread can become separated from the tyre. Consider searching for the best car service in Dubai to seek help when stuck in such a situation.
Final Word
It's important to take care of your car tyres. Not only will this improve your vehicle's performance, but it can also help keep you safe on the roads. Be sure to check your tyres regularly for any signs of wear and tear, and take care to avoid any potential hazards.
