Understanding and Preventing Flat Spots on Your Tyres

Flat spots are something which can affect any car tyre. If you would like to find out more about what a flat spot, how it is caused and the steps you can take to avoid this problem, read on to learn more.

The definition of a flat spot

When your chemical is in motion, the tyre spin at speed and generate friction. This friction generates heat which warms the rubber and keeps it flexible. However, if you leave your car stationary for very long periods of time, the tyres can develop flat spots. This occurs because the bottom of the tyre which is in contact with the ground is compressed so it is flat. Because the wheels are not turning, the same piece of rubber is always in contact with the ground. After a while, the bottom of the tyre can become misshapen. If you attempt to drive on a tyre with a flat spot you will find that the ride isn't very comfortable as it will be very bumpy. You may find it difficult to control your vehicle which increases the change of an auto accident. For this reason, you should never drive on tyres which have flat spots.

The risk factors 

The primary cause of flat spots in loss of tyre pressure. The tyres on your car will naturally lose some air pressure over time. If this lost air is not replaced, the weight of the car will press the slightly deflated tyre into the ground.

If your car is fitted with high-performance tyres, it will be at an increased risk of developing flat spots on its tyres. This is due to the fact that the stiff sidewalls of high-performance tyres mean they do not bulge out under the weight of the car which creates more downward pressure on the bottom of the rubber.

If you leave your car parked for a long time during the colder months, this can increase the risk of your tyres developing flat spots. This is because colder temperatures reduce the elasticity of the rubber.

The steps you can take to avoid flat spots on your tyres

There are a couple of things you can do if you plan to park your car for a long period of time. Firstly, you could add a little air to the tyres so they are slightly overinflated. Doing so will help to reduce the speed at which the pressure in your tyres falls to a dangerous level. Secondly, you should consider removing each wheel and putting your car up on a storage ramp. Doing so will mean you can safely store the tyres until you need to drive the car again.

For more info, contact a tyre shop today.