Tyres damages: Causes and effects

It is important, therefore, to inspect the tyres regularly- whenever the pressure is checked- to ensure that there are no dangerous cuts and wear. It is important to establish what caused a tyre fault. The condition of a tyre can be a valuable clue to tracking down a mechanical defect or a pointer to bad […]

It is important, therefore, to inspect the tyres regularly- whenever the pressure is checked- to ensure that there are no dangerous cuts and wear.

It is important to establish what caused a tyre fault. The condition of a tyre can be a valuable clue to tracking down a mechanical defect or a pointer to bad driving habits. If it is unnoticed, more serious faults and dangers can develop. Lets look at a few common condition that cause tyre faults.

Speed: Excessive high speed driving may cause overheat and soften the rubber of tyres not design for excessive high speed operation. This will sometimes result in what is call ‘chunking’, which is when pieces of the tyre tread are flung off the tyre carcass at speed. Bear in mind when choosing tyres you have to be certain on what the tyre will have to do. Some tyres are built for high speed while others are not. Some even have unlimited speed limit. If your car is to be driven mainly at high speed, make sure the tyres are suitable for such operation. To be sure of your purchase check with your tyre seller.

Road surface: Unfortunately, road surfaces that give the tyres an excellent grip may cause rapid tyre wear. This is also true of roads that tend to appear smooth. In Nigeria there are many roads with pot holes that should be a approach in a gentle manner. On high speeds there is a high tendency to damage a tyre or rim when entering pot holes in high speed.

Lack of balance: Tyres running out of true badly balanced, brake-drum ovality, or high spot the discs can all cause extra wear at one spot on the tread. Badly adjusted brakes tend to cause extra wear in several places. When experiencing irregular and rapid wear it could be caused by distorted wheels, worn wheel bearings, suspension or steering joints and ineffective dampers.

Your tyres are very important for your safety. If you take good care and do not abuse them then you will continue to preserve your live and that of your car. I’m glad to be of help anytime.