A blowout occurs when there is a sudden loss of pressure in your car’s tire, which can be caused by a variety of factors. You might have accidentally overloaded the vehicle, or there could be a puncture in the tire that’s letting air escape. It’s important to know how to avoid these issues to protect you and other drivers on the road. To help keep you informed, here are four ways to prevent a blowout.

4 Tips for Preventing Tire Blowouts

1. Avoid Underinflation

When tires don’t have enough air, they can’t hold the pressure of the car. The weight will force the tire to flex farther than it’s designed to, overheating the metal inside the rubber and causing a blowout.

Always fill the tires to the recommended pounds per square inch measurement noted on the manufacturer's recommendations. Check the air levels once a week to ensure your tires can handle the weight of the vehicle. Also, keep an eye on the dashboard lights, as vehicles made after 2007 have warning lights if the air pressure is incorrect.

2. Follow the Weight Recommendations

Every car has a recommended load weight limit. If you put too many things or people in your car, it’ll put stress on the tires and increase the likelihood of a blowout. It’s better to stay well below the weight limit even if you need to take multiple trips to transport the load.

3. Assess the Tires

Every so often, take a peek at your car’s tires. Look for signs of wear, such as cracking or deflation. If there’s a nail or screw stuck in the treads, air will slowly escape and eventually leave you with a flat tire or cause a blowout.

4. Skip Potholes

Hitting a pothole or large crack in the road causes a sudden pressure increase in your tires. When possible, avoid these obstacles by keeping your eyes on the road and staying alert of your surroundings. This way, there’ll be plenty of time to adjust your steering instead of having to make a sudden turn.

If you need tire replacement after a blowout, contact Warrenton Tire & Muffler in Warren County, MO, for a complimentary estimate. The innovative team has been in business for 38 years, providing auto maintenance and repairs. Call the Veterans Memorial Parkway location at (636) 456-4355 or visit the website for information on top brands the family-owned business sells like Bridgestone® and Goodyear®.