TIRE CONDITIONS
Causes and Corrections
Tread Wear - In Center
Probable Cause
- Tires overinflated
- Use of oversized tires
Appropriate Correction
- Confirm cold inflation pressure matches vehicle's recommended pressures
- Confirm appropriate rim width and evaluate alternate tire pressures
Tread Wear - On Both Shoulders
Probable Cause
- Tires underinflated
- Vehicle overloaded
Appropriate Correction
- Confirm cold inflation pressure matches vehicle's recommended pressures
- Confirm load being carried is within vehicle specifications, reduce as necessary
Tread Wear - On One Shoulder
Probable Cause
- Wheel alignment does not match actual driving conditions
- Worn or damaged steering/suspensions parts
Appropriate Correction
- Set alignment to most appropriate angles withing vehicle's approved range
- Replace worn or bent parts and align
Tread Wear - Heel and Toe Block Wear
Probable Cause
- Insufficient tire rotation for driving conditions
- Tires underinflated, increasing drag and wear
Appropriate Correction
- Rotate tires more frequently following vehicle's approved pattern
- Confirm cold inflation pressure matches vehicle's recommended pressures
Tread Wear - Irregular Cupping
Probable Cause
- Loose steering or suspension components
- Tires and wheels out of balance
Appropriate Correction
- Replace worn struts/shocks and other steering/suspension parts and align
- Correct balance of tires and wheels
Circumferential Split/Star
Probable Cause
- Impact break from road hazard or pothole
- Tire sidewall pinched between road and wheel
Appropriate Correction
- Dismount tire and inspect for interior damage, replace tire if damage is found
- Determine if wheel is bent by inspecting for runout, replace wheel if damage is found
Bubble/Bulge
Probable Cause
- Tire sidewall pinched between road and wheel
- Components contaminated during manufacturing
Appropriate Correction
- Dismount tire and inspect, tire manufacturer's warranty applies if no interior damage is found
- Dismount tire and inspect, interior damage indicates road hazard
Ozone/Weather Cracking
Probable Cause
- Frequent exposure to direct sun and hot temperatures
- Tires exposed to ozone or harsh chemicals
Appropriate Correction
- Evaluate service conditions and attempt to minimize exposure to sun and heat
- Attempt to keep tires away from sources of ozone and chemical exposure
Abrasions of Both Sidewalls
Probable Cause
- Driven on when extremely low on air
- Driven on when flat
Appropriate Correction
- Dismount and inspect tire for interior damage, replace tire if damage is found
