7 risk factors that you should know before your tire explodes!
Tire explosion, an unwanted accident for everyone.
Since road safety is something that every car user should always keep in mind, today, PTT Lubricants brought you the 7 possible causes of tire explosions that everyone should not underestimate and be careful while driving. Let’s see what they are!
1. Deteriorate tire
As the car is driven everyday, its tires will also deteriorate over time. Car users should keep an eye out for abnormalities such as cracked, swollen, or worn sidewalls of the tire tread. These abnormalities are telling you that it is time to have the tires replaced before there is a problem in steering the car or the tire explodes.
2. Old/Expired Tires
Some cheaper tires that you buy from an unreliable shop may actually be the old or expired tires. When used, these tires will deteriorate easily and can end up bursting. Therefore, don’t forget to check the number written on the tire sidewall to see the time of manufacture (week/year). If the tire has been stored for more than 5 years, it indicates that the tire has been in stock for too long. Importantly, DO NOT buy if the tire has cracks or splits on it.
3. Driving on sharp objects
As tires are in contact with the road surface all the time, there is a high risk of them getting cut by foreign objects on the road, whether it is nails, rubble, scrap metal, etc. These can all lead to an explosion.
4. Carrying heavy loads
Carrying a heavy load that surpasses the weight specified on the tire sidewall will increase the risk of accidents. Exceeding weight will also increase the pressure on the tires and they might explode under that weight and pressure.
5. Tires become too hot
Many people may think that hot weather in Thailand or the hot road surface is the cause of tire explosion. In fact, the heat that causes a tire to explode is from driving over the speed specified on the tire on the sidewall. As the tire cheek will be heated when driving at a continuous speed for a long time, especially during a long distance trip, it is recommended to only drive at a proper speed for safety.
6. Inflating tires incorrectly
Exceeding or insufficient air inflation will cause the tire sidewall to heat and tear or explode when the car is driven for a long time. Therefore, it is recommended to only inflate the air according to the guidelines on the driver's door or as specified by the tire to reduce this risk.
7. Hitting potholes severely
Road condition is one of the important factors that affects car tires. If driving on bumpy roads at a high speed, the tire may be hit violently. This can cause the tire to swell and explode. It is recommended to avoid roads that are bumpy or drive with caution for the safety of both the car and the driver.
Now that you know all these factors, don't let a tire explosion happen to you! Check the condition of your tires regularly for your own safety throughout the journey. With care from PTT Lubricants 💙