You recognize that strange bulge, a lump or bulge appearing on the side of your vehicle's tyre. It's that one of those things you catch a glimpse of when washing your car or perhaps when you check your tyres prior to a journey. That strange bulging thing on tyre? It's not a strange cosmetic feature, it's a sign.
All the drivers just brush it aside as a surface phenomenon. But here's a simple fact, if there's a bulge on the tyre, something has gone wrong within the internal structure of the tyre. And neglecting it? That may have disastrous consequences while you're driving along.
So, let's get to the point. We'll discuss what causes tyre bulge, top tyre bulge reasons, and why each bulge in car tyre is worth your immediate attention. Trust me, your safety is at stake more than you could possibly imagine.
What is a Tyre Bulge?
First of all, let's define what a tyre bulge actually is.
A bulge on a tyre is literally a lump that protrudes out of the sidewall of your tyre. It occurs when the inner layers of the tyre are damaged, i.e., the part that ensures the air remains inside and shape holds. The air begins to push outward where the internal structure has broken down, and a bulge in car tyre develops.
Now, it may seem innocent. But it isn't. That bulge on the tyre signifies that the tyre strength is weakened. The more you use it, the greater the chance that the bulge breaks open, and then everything can go horribly wrong.
Tyre Bulge Causes: Why and How It Occurs
So, what are the primary tyre bulge causes? Let's simplify it as much as possible:
Potholes and Sudden Impacts: Those nasty potholes? They can fracture the internal support of your tyre, even though the damage may not be noticed straight away.
Hitting Curbs Accidentally: At times parking miscalculations or snappy turns land you bumping into curbs. That harsh hit can easily bring about internal damage, and the result will be a bulge on tyre.
Overinflating the Tyres: Pumping too much air into your tyres makes them stiff and rigid. When they are unable to flex as required, shocks can lead to the inner layers cracking, resulting in a bulge.
Faulty Manufacturing: In some cases, a factory fault is a concealed tyre bulge reason that only appears after some usage.
Age and Wear: With the passage of time, rubber loses its elasticity. Even due to no big hit, old tyres are prone to developing bulge in car tyre due to internal deterioration.
So technically, tyre bulge causes can be anything from atrocious roads to bad luck. But here's the important takeaway? The moment it shows up, the damage is done.
Why a Tyre Bulge is Dangerous
Now on to the important bit, why is a tyre bulge threatening?
For one, that bulge is a stress point. When you drive, tyres get hot. The more heat and pressure, the more stress on that bulge. And if it bursts on the road? That's a blowout, and a frightening one at that.
You'll also see:
Poor Handling: A bulge on tyre disrupts your car's balance, particularly at higher speeds.
Vibrations: Your steering may begin to feel unsteady.
Unreliable Braking: Your tyres may fail to grip the road as they should, which reduces braking ability.
In short, it plays with safety. Regardless of how tiny the bulge appears, the danger is genuine.
Common Signs That a Tyre Bulge is Getting Worse
Sometimes the bulge on tyre looks minor at first glance, but it can quietly worsen. Keep an eye out for growing size, deepening cracks near the bulge, or any noticeable distortion when the tyre rotates. Unusual thumping sounds or increased steering pull to one side also indicate that the bulge in car tyre is progressing. If you notice these signs, don't postpone a visit to a professional. The deterioration is often faster than it seems, especially if you're driving frequently. Spotting it early can prevent a sudden blowout on the road and keep your vehicle handling steady.
Also Read: How to Avoid Tyre Cupping?
What To Do When You Spot a Bulge in Car Tyre
So, you have spotted a bulge in car tyre, what now?
Stop driving if you can: Driving on will only aggravate the damage.
Then: don't try to repair it yourself. This is not like a puncture that can be repaired by a patch. The destruction is within, and that cannot be mended.
Lastly: replace the tyre. It is the only viable alternative. Putting off the replacement is inviting disaster, particularly if you regularly drive or on the highway.
Also, get your other tyres checked while you're there. It is possible that one impact can hit more than one tyre without your knowing.
Can Tyre Bulge Be Repaired or Is Replacement the Only Option?
Many wonder whether a bulge on tyre can be fixed like a regular puncture. Unfortunately, that's not possible. The damage is structural, within the layers of the tyre itself, which isn't repairable through patches or plugs. Even if the tyre bulge cause seems minor, the risk of sudden failure remains. A repaired exterior won't restore the internal strength that the tyre bulge compromised. Therefore, replacement is the only viable and safe option. It may seem costly upfront, but it's a small price compared to the dangers of a burst tyre while driving, particularly at high speeds.
Can You Prevent Tyre Bulges?
Good question, can you avoid it happening?
Well, you can't avoid it altogether, but you can lower the chances. Here's how:
Drive slowly over potholes and bumpy bits.
Check your tyre pressure regularly. Never overinflate or underinflate.
Avoid overloading your car. The extra weight can push tyres beyond their limit.
Inspect tyres often. Catch small issues early.
Being careful won’t guarantee immunity from a tyre bulge, but it’ll make them less likely to happen.
Driving Habits That Increase Tyre Bulge Risks
Certain driving habits directly contribute to the risk of developing a tyre bulge. Constantly driving at high speeds over uneven roads or ignoring recommended tyre pressure levels can create stress on the sidewalls, leading to weak spots. Aggressive cornering, frequent curb hits, or carrying loads beyond your vehicle’s capacity further increase vulnerability. Being mindful of how you accelerate, brake, and steer, especially on damaged roads, can reduce the strain on your tyres. In the long run, developing smoother and more controlled driving habits can not only lower the chances of a bulge on tyre, but also extend the overall life of your tyres.
Read Also: Low Profile Tyres: Performance, Pros, and Cons
When to Replace a Tyre with a Bulge
Let’s be crystal clear here, if there’s a bulge on tyre, it needs replacing immediately. No exceptions.
Even if the tyre is fine or the bulge does not look too bad, that tyre is a time bomb waiting to happen. It's better to be safe than to risk it. A blowout in the middle of traffic or at highway speed is not worth the risk.
Keep in mind, it's not about the price of a new tyre, it's about looking out for yourself, your passengers, and your car.
What Causes Tyre Bulge to Worsen Quickly
Sometimes a small bulge will increase in size faster than you anticipate. Why does tyre bulge get worse? Driving over bumpy roads, at high speeds, in extreme temperatures, or even maintaining the tyre with too much pressure. All these hasten the deterioration of that vulnerable area.
That is why even if you see a slight bulge, it is advisable not to delay. The conditions around you, roads, climate, and driving manner, all play their part in determining how fast things spiral out of control.
Final Thoughts
A tyre bulge is one of those things that you can't afford to get past. That small lump is not just an eyesore, it's a red flag warning you that your tyre is not safe. Knowing the causes of tyre bulge, identifying the typical reasons for tyre bulge, and acting fast will save you from much greater issues in the future.
In case of doubt, don't risk your safety. Drive down to your local Apollo-authorised service centre. Let the professionals check it out, advise you, and assist you in replacing any unsafe tyres before the situation worsens.
For on the road, there is only the tyre separating your vehicle from the asphalt, so ensure that it's in the best condition possible.