Tire bubble: What is it and can it be fixed?

Quick insights

• A tire bubble is a bulge that appears on the side of the tire caused by air leaking from the inside.
• Tire bubbles are typically caused by impact damage, such as hitting a pothole or curb.
• Driving with a tire bubble is risky and can lead to flat tires or tire blowouts.

There are many things you wouldn't want in or on your car's tires. Some of them, like nails, punctures or roadkill, might seem obvious. But air? Air in your tires is normally a good thing, but when it comes in the form of a tire bubble, it's indicative of a pretty serious problem. Let's take a closer look.

What is a tire bubble?

A tire bubble is a bulge that appears on the sidewall of the tire, often resembling a large blister on the surface. It's caused by air leaking from the inside of the tire to the outer layers, creating a bubble-like appearance. This is not just a cosmetic issue; a tire bubble can be a serious safety risk as it weakens the tire's structure and can lead to a blowout. When the tire's inner layer gets damaged, the air pressure inside the tire pushes against the outer layers causing a bubble to form.

This bubble is a weak spot in the tire, and it can burst if it gets hit by another impact or if the tire pressure gets too high, which can cause blowouts. A tire blowout occurs when a tire rapidly loses air pressure, often resulting in a loud explosion-like sound, which can cause the vehicle to lose control and potentially lead to an accident.

What causes a tire bubble?

Tire bubbles are typically caused by impact damage. This can occur when you hit a pothole, curb or other obstacles on the road. The impact can cause a small tear or hole in the inner liner of the tire, allowing air to escape into the body of the tire and form a bubble.

How to fix a tire bubble

Unfortunately, a tire bubble cannot be repaired. The only solution is to replace the tire. This is because the bubble indicates a structural flaw in the tire that can't be fixed without compromising the safety and performance of the tire.

How to prevent tire bubbles

While you can't always prevent tire bubbles, there are steps you can take to reduce the chances of getting them:

• Regular inspections: Regularly inspect your tires for signs of damage, including bubbles, cuts or punctures. Early detection of a bubble can prevent a blowout.
• Proper inflation: Keeping your tires properly inflated can help prevent damage that can lead to tire bubbles. Underinflated tires are more prone to damage from impacts while overinflated tires can cause a bubble to burst. It's important to regularly check and adjust tire pressure according to manufacturer recommendations, especially during extreme weather conditions, as temperature fluctuations can significantly affect tire pressure levels.
• Avoiding road hazards: Try to avoid hitting potholes, curbs and other road hazards that can cause impact damage to your tires. If you can't avoid a pothole, slow down before you hit it to minimize the impact.
• Regular tire rotation and balancing: Regular tire rotation and balancing can help ensure even tire wear, reducing the risk of damage. Tires that are worn unevenly are more susceptible to damage from impacts.

Can I drive with a tire bubble?

Driving with a tire bubble can be risky. The bubble indicates that the tire has been structurally compromised, and continued driving can cause the tire to fail completely. If you notice a bubble in your tire, it's important to get it checked out by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.

The bottom line

A tire bubble is a serious issue that indicates a structural flaw in the tire. While it can't be repaired, understanding what causes tire bubbles and how to prevent them can help you maintain your tires and stay safe on the road.