Understanding How 3 Common Road Hazards Affect Your Tires
Your tires have a tough life. They're the only part of your car typically in contact with the road, which means they're wholly responsible for providing you with the firm grip you need to accelerate, turn, and brake. Your tires are also the part of your vehicle most likely to experience some up close and personal time with road hazards, any of which may create a high risk for damage.
Of course, not all hazards are the same. Understanding how the objects and dangers you encounter on the road will affect your tires can help you recognize the signs of trouble and schedule prompt repairs. Keep reading to learn how three common road hazards and accidents can affect your car's tires.
1. Curb Hits
The first item is one that you can easily avoid: curb hits. These impacts occur when you pull up alongside a curb and come just a little too close, scraping your wheels and tires. These hits usually cause cosmetic damage to your wheels, but they can also scratch and gouge your tires. If you feel your wheels scraping against the curb, always check your tires for signs of damage to the sidewall.
While some minor scratching is usually harmless, get to a tire shop immediately if you notice gouging or missing chunks. You'll need a professional to assess this damage and determine if your tire requires repair or replacement.
2. Potholes
Potholes are another hazard you can frequently dodge, although some may be too hard to spot until it's too late. Hitting a deep or sharp pothole at high speed can dent your wheels and even take a chunk out of your tires. If you hit one of these holes hard enough, you'll want to check your tires for any indication of damage or lost pressure.
As with curb hits, you should have a qualified tire repair shop investigate any noticeable damage. Structural tire damage can lead to catastrophic blowouts, so it's always better to be safe than sorry.
3. Construction Debris
While road and construction crews typically clean up after working in an area, they occasionally leave debris behind. Unfortunately, nails, screws, or small chunks of wood are often difficult or impossible to spot while driving. Your first warning sign that you've run over some damaging debris will usually be when your tire starts to lose air.
If you can see nails, chunks of metal, or anything else sticking out of your tire tread, stop driving immediately. Do not attempt to remove these items yourself or use a do-it-yourself patch kit. Instead, schedule a tow to a tire repair shop as soon as possible. A professional evaluation and repair will give you the best chance of repairing your tire and avoiding a replacement.