Reasons Why Tires Blow Out and What You Need to Know

October 28, 2024
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As a driver, few experiences are as startling as a sudden tire blowout. Whether on the highways of Salt Lake City, the rural roads of St. George, or the city streets of Orem, understanding why tires blow out is essential for your safety and your vehicle’s longevity. Blowouts can happen for various reasons, from overloading the car to worn-out tires, and knowing the causes can help prevent them. Below, we’ll break down the primary reasons for tire blowouts and how drivers in Utah can avoid them.


1. Underinflation: A Leading Cause of Tire Blowouts

One of the most common reasons why tires blow out is improper inflation. Underinflated tires flex more as they roll, generating excessive heat that can weaken the tire’s structure. In the hot summer months in Utah, this can be especially problematic.

  • Tip: Check your tire pressure regularly. Many car dealerships in Salt Lake City, including Action Auto Utah, recommend checking tire pressure at least once a month and before long trips. Keeping your tires at the recommended pressure helps prevent blowouts and can also lead to better fuel economy.

2. Overloading Your Vehicle

Exceeding your car’s load capacity can significantly increase the chances of a blowout. Extra weight causes the tires to carry more load than they were designed for, leading to increased pressure and stress on the tire’s structure.

  • Tip: Always check the manufacturer’s weight recommendations, which are typically listed on a sticker inside the driver’s side door. If you’re purchasing from used car dealerships in Utah, make sure to inquire about the vehicle’s load capacity and discuss with your dealer the best ways to manage weight.

3. High Temperatures and Utah’s Hot Roads

Tires are more likely to blow out in hot weather because high temperatures increase tire pressure and cause the rubber to degrade faster. Summer heat in Utah can make this worse, especially during peak travel months when roads are packed with used cars for sale in Utah from cities like St. George and Orem.

  • Tip: Try to park in shaded areas when possible and avoid driving during peak heat hours. Regular tire checks are vital, especially if you’ve recently bought from a dealership in Salt Lake City and need to get familiar with your vehicle’s optimal tire maintenance.

4. Hitting Potholes and Road Debris

Potholes and debris on Utah’s roads can damage tires over time. Even a small impact can weaken the tire’s structure, setting it up for a blowout later. This is a common issue in urban areas and on rough rural roads alike.

  • Tip: Slow down when driving on rough roads or through construction zones. Utah drivers frequently encounter road debris, so if you’re visiting auto sales in Utah to buy a used car, be sure to inspect the tires for any existing damage.

5. Poor Tire Quality or Worn-Out Treads

Tires with low-quality construction or worn-out treads are more susceptible to blowouts. If you’re driving with old, worn tires, especially during rain or snow, your tires may not have adequate traction, increasing the risk of a blowout.

6. Age of the Tires

Even if tires look fine on the outside, age can degrade their internal structure, making blowouts more likely. As a general rule, tires older than six years should be replaced, even if the tread still appears adequate.

  • Tip: If you’re buying a used vehicle, ask the dealer about the tire’s age. Used car dealerships in Orem and other parts of Utah can often provide details on the vehicle’s maintenance history, including tire replacements.

7. Improper Wheel Alignment and Balancing

Misaligned or unbalanced wheels cause uneven wear on your tires, which can weaken them over time and lead to blowouts. Poor alignment is especially common among vehicles that frequently travel through rugged or uneven terrain.

  • Tip: Regular wheel alignment checks are essential, especially if you often drive on Utah’s mountainous or rural roads. Many dealerships in Salt Lake City provide wheel alignment services to help maintain your vehicle’s safety.


How to Prevent Tire Blowouts: Key Tips for Utah Drivers

Now that you know the primary reasons for blowouts, here are some practical tips to prevent them:

  1. Inspect Tires Regularly: Take a close look at your tires every few weeks. Look for signs of uneven wear, low tread, or cuts in the rubber. Regular inspections are especially important if you frequently drive on Utah’s rougher roads.

  2. Rotate Tires Frequently: Rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles helps distribute wear evenly, which reduces the likelihood of a blowout.

  3. Invest in Quality Tires: If you’re considering purchasing a used car, invest in high-quality tires from a reliable dealer in Salt Lake City like Action Auto Utah. This investment is small compared to the costs associated with a blowout.

  4. Stay Within Load Limits: Avoid carrying loads that exceed your vehicle’s weight capacity. Always refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

  5. Practice Safe Driving: Avoid sudden braking, aggressive turns, and speeding over rough roads. Such habits put extra stress on your tires.


What to Do If You Experience a Tire Blowout

If you’re driving and a tire blowout happens, here’s what to do:

  1. Stay Calm: Try not to panic. Keep a firm grip on the steering wheel and avoid sudden turns.

  2. Ease Off the Accelerator: Do not slam on the brakes. Gradually release the accelerator and avoid hard braking to maintain control in the event of a blowout.

  3. Pull Over Safely: Once you’ve slowed down, find a safe area to pull over and inspect the damage.

  4. Call for Assistance: If you’re unable to replace the tire yourself, contact roadside assistance. If you purchased your vehicle from a Salt Lake dealership or used car dealerships in Orem, inquire if they offer emergency support or recommended services.


Avoid the risk of tire blowouts by keeping your vehicle in top shape. If you’re looking to buy or service a reliable used car, visit Action Auto Utah at our Salt Lake dealership. Our team provides guidance on tire care and offers a wide range of used cars for sale to suit every driver’s needs. Drive safe with Action Auto Utah—your trusted partner for auto sales in Utah!


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