How to Identify and Fix Common Tire Problems

You can identify your tires yourself or come visit us for a free tire check

Tires are one of the most critical components of your vehicle, yet they are often overlooked until a problem arises. Whether you’re dealing with a slow leak, a worn-out tread, or an unusual vibration while driving, understanding how to identify and fix common tire problems is essential for maintaining your vehicle’s safety and performance. At Speedway Tire and Service in Echo Park, Los Angeles, we specialize in tire repairs and replacements to keep you driving smoothly. Here’s a guide on how to spot and address some of the most common tire issues.

1. Flat or Underinflated Tires

One of the most common tire problems is a flat or underinflated tire. Underinflated tires can lead to poor fuel efficiency, reduced traction, and premature tire wear. A flat tire, on the other hand, can leave you stranded and unable to drive.

How to Identify:

• Low tire pressure warning light on your dashboard.
• Visibly soft tire when you press on it with your hand.
• Noticeably flat or deflated appearance.

How to Fix:
If you notice a low tire pressure warning, stop as soon as possible to check the tire pressure with a gauge. If the pressure is low, inflate the tire to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI. If the tire is flat, you may need to replace it or patch it if the damage is minimal. However, it’s always best to consult a professional to assess the damage and ensure your tire is safe to drive on.

2. Worn or Bald Tires

Tires naturally wear down over time, but excessive wear can compromise their ability to grip the road, increasing the risk of an accident, especially in wet conditions.

How to Identify:

• Shallow tread depth, where the grooves are less than 1/16 inch deep.
• Uneven wear on one side of the tire.

How to Fix:
If your tire tread is worn down or bald, it’s time to replace the tire. Bald tires are more likely to cause blowouts and may not provide enough traction on slippery roads. Regularly rotate your tires and maintain proper alignment to ensure even wear across all four tires.

3. Tire Blowouts

A tire blowout is one of the most dangerous tire problems. It can occur suddenly, often due to driving on a punctured or underinflated tire.

How to Identify:

• A loud popping or banging sound followed by the car pulling to one side.
• A sudden loss of pressure and a flapping sound.

How to Fix:
If you experience a blowout, it’s essential to stay calm and gently steer the vehicle to the side of the road. Never slam on the brakes, as this can cause further damage. Once stopped, replace the tire with a spare or call for roadside assistance. A blown tire typically cannot be repaired, and you’ll need to replace it entirely.

4. Tire Vibration

If your steering wheel or the vehicle itself vibrates while driving, it could indicate an issue with your tires.

How to Identify:

• Vibration or shaking felt in the steering wheel or car body, particularly at higher speeds.
• Uneven tire wear or an imbalanced tire.

How to Fix:
Vibration could be a sign that your tires are out of balance or that they’ve become misaligned. In this case, your tires will need to be rotated and balanced, or your vehicle’s alignment should be checked and adjusted. Always consult a professional mechanic to address this problem.

5. Cracks or Bulges in the Tire Sidewall

Cracks and bulges in the tire’s sidewall are a clear indication that the tire has sustained damage. This type of issue is usually caused by hitting a pothole or driving over debris.

How to Identify:

• Visible bulges or cracks on the tire’s sidewall.
• A tire that feels bouncy or unstable.

How to Fix:
A cracked or bulging tire should be replaced immediately, as these issues weaken the tire and can lead to a blowout. Driving on a damaged tire can be dangerous, so it’s best to get it inspected by a professional.

6. Tire Noise

If you hear a strange noise coming from your tires, it could be due to uneven wear or foreign objects lodged in the tire.

How to Identify:

• Loud humming, thumping, or flapping noises while driving.

How to Fix:
If you hear unusual tire noise, inspect the tire for foreign objects such as stones or debris stuck in the tread. If the noise persists, it may be due to uneven wear, which can be corrected through tire rotation, balancing, or alignment. In some cases, the tire may need to be replaced.

7. Punctures

Punctures are another common issue with tires, especially if you drive through sharp objects like nails or glass.

How to Identify:

• A hissing sound or slow loss of tire pressure over time.
• A visible puncture in the tire.

How to Fix:
Small punctures in the tread area of the tire can often be repaired with a patch, but larger punctures or those near the sidewall require a full tire replacement. If you notice a puncture, take your vehicle to a professional to assess the damage and ensure proper repair.

How to Maintain Your Tires

The best way to avoid common tire problems is through regular maintenance. Here are a few tips:

• Check tire pressure regularly and inflate tires to the recommended PSI.
• Rotate your tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles to promote even wear.
• Inspect tires for damage and replace them when necessary.
• Get your tires balanced and aligned to prevent premature wear.

Why Choose Speedway Tire and Service?

At Speedway Tire and Service, we’re dedicated to providing top-notch tire services to keep your vehicle running safely and smoothly. Our expert technicians are here to help you identify and fix common tire problems and ensure your tires are in excellent condition. Whether you need a tire repair, replacement, or just routine maintenance, we’ve got you covered.

Visit us today at 1165 West Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90012 or give us a call at +1 (213) 250-4254. You can also schedule an appointment online by visiting our Contact Us page.