Could Your Tyres Be Hiding Pothole Damage?

Potholes are prevalent across the Australian road network, and they cause a considerable amount of damage each year. Some of them may be cavernous and can instantly affect a wheel and tyre when they are hit at high speed. Most of the time, this type of impact is not too severe and may only cause some scuff marks to appear on the rim, but at other times, the tyre can be compromised and may no longer be fit to drive. What should you be on the lookout for if you've recently had several close encounters with those potholes?

Lower Profile Risks

Many modern cars today feature low-profile wheels and tyres that are designed to make the vehicle more aesthetically pleasing. While the car may well handle more effectively, there is a considerable drawback, as the tyre's sidewall is not as strong as it could otherwise be. When the vehicle hits the sharp edge of a pothole, the interior structure of the tyre may break. The metal strands that are designed to stiffen the rubber may come apart, and when this happens, some of the tyre wall will bulge out.

Apparent or Hidden?

It is a good idea for you to check the integrity of each tyre before you set off on your drive. But still, you may not be able to see the other side of the tyre, and a bulge may be hidden from sight.

Looking for Damage

When you take your vehicle in for a service, the technician will remove all four wheels and tyres for inspection. They will be able to see any damage at this time, and if they notice a bulge, then they will remove the tyre from the wheel itself. When they do so, they will be able to look at the interior structure of the tyre and determine whether it has been damaged beyond safe repair. Occasionally, they may be able to fix the issue without replacement, but safety must always come first.

Scheduled Visits

Remember, you should schedule a service visit on a regular basis anyway so that the mechanic can rebalance the tyre and check the various alignment levels. This should help you to get as much mileage out of each new tyre as possible and avoid any issues with performance. Crucially, they will also be able to check for structural issues to see whether you have any pothole-induced damage and to replace the cover as needed.

To learn more, contact a tyre shop.