Why do tyres burst in the summer?
Why do tyres burst in the summer?
Long-distance road trips, weekend staycations, and seaside escapes all make a comeback as the weather warms up. However, the return of summer also brings a higher risk of tyre blowouts, leading to unexpected breakdowns and dangerous situations on the road.
This guide explains what causes summer tyre bursts, how to spot the warning signs, and what you can do to prevent blowouts.
How summer conditions increase tyre burst risk
Warmer months are often accompanied by more high-speed motorway driving, heavier loads from extra luggage and passengers, and longer journeys with fewer breaks.
All of these factors can increase the strain on your tyres, accelerating wear and raising the likelihood of a tyre blowout.
What causes a tyre blowout
A blowout is a sudden, explosive loss of air pressure caused when a tyre’s structure becomes compromised. This can happen for several reasons:
- Sharp debris such as nails, screws, glass, or thorns.
- Impact damage from potholes or raised kerbs, weakening the tread or sidewall.
- Ageing tyres with worn or degraded rubber.
- Valve stem faults that allow air to escape.
Once the tyre is weakened, heat and pressure can quickly push it past its limit.
How summer heat affects tyre pressure
As temperatures rise, the air inside your tyres expands – typically 1-2 PSI for every 10°C increase. Combined with friction and resistance from the road, this can lead to:
- Increased braking distance.
- Reduced traction and grip.
- Uneven tread wear.
- A harsher, less comfortable ride.
- A higher risk of punctures or blowouts.
Understanding tyre pressure changes is key to preventing summer failures.
Warning signs your tyres are at risk
A blowout can be a scary and dangerous situation. Luckily, they rarely happen without warning, and there are signs you can look out for to decrease the risk:
- Unusual vibrations or noises in the steering wheel, seats or even floorboard.
- Frequent pressure loss, often caused by a slow puncture.
- Loose or unstable steering, especially at higher speeds.
- Uneven or rapid tread wear, which may also indicate alignment or suspension issues.
- Visible damage such as bulges, cracks, or blistering on the sidewall.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to get your tyres checked. At National Tyres, we offer a completely free tyre check where our experts will examine your tyre pressure, tread depth, and signs of damage to keep you safe behind the wheel.
How to prevent tyre bursts in summer
A few simple maintenance habits can dramatically reduce your risks of a tyre-related road accident.
1. Check tyre pressure when tyres are cold
Use a reliable pressure gauge and measure your tyres:
- First thing in the morning.
- Before driving.
- At least 3 hours after your last journey.
2. Carry out regular tyre maintenance
Check your tyres every 2-3 weeks, as they naturally lose around 1-2 PSI per month. During your regular checks, look for:
- Sufficient tread depth.
- Cracks, bulges, or embedded objects.
3. Avoid overloading your vehicle
It can be tricky to narrow your staycation checklist down, but extra weight increases heat and pressure inside the tyres.
Check your manufacturer’s load limits for more advice and always adhere to them.
4. Check wheel alignment and balance
Misaligned wheels can further contribute to uneven tyre wear as well as:
- Steering difficulty.
- Vibrations in the steering wheel.
- Vehicle drift.
Proper wheel alignment can reduce tyre wear and lower blowout risk.
At your local National Tyres branch, you can book a 2-wheel or 4-wheel alignment and/or a wheel balancing to prevent accelerated tyre wear.
5. Drive smoothly and safely
Avoid aggressive overtaking, harsh cornering, and speeding. Gentle driving keeps tyre temperatures lower and reduces stress on the rubber.
What to do if a tyre bursts while driving
Although a blowout can be terrifying, staying calm is crucial. You mustn’t suddenly press on the brakes, as this can cause your car to flip or swerve into other vehicles.
1. Keep a firm, steady grip on your steering wheel.
2. Gently ease off the accelerator.
3. Apply the brakes slowly and steadily.
4. Switch on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
5. Pull over safely as soon as possible.
Once stopped, you can now swap out for your spare tyre or call for professional assistance.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A bit of additional awareness and regular maintenance can dramatically reduce your risk of tyre blowouts during the summer months. By staying proactive and looking after your tyres, you’ll enjoy safer, smoother and more confident journeys all season long!
Did you enjoy this blog post? |
Sign up for SPECIAL OFFERS