How to Identify Tire Defects and Prevent Tire Tread Separation
What is tire separation? Tire splitting and tread separation is a potentially dangerous even in which the tread of a tire separates from the casing or the body of a tire. When traveling at highway speeds, tire separation symptoms can lead to loss of vehicle control, rollovers, accidents and death. Keep reading to learn how to identify split rims, what causes a tire to split, and examples of tire separation.
Examples of Tire Tread Separation and Manufacturer Defect
- While tire abuse and neglect can lead to tire tread separation, analysis shows that one of the most common causes of damage is actually manufacturer defect.
- The vast majority of tires manufactured for cars, pickups, minivans and sports utility vehicles are steel belted radial tires. The most common defect associated with these types of tires is tire tread separation.
- When these types of tires are manufactured, specialized rubber compounds are reinforced by fabric cords and steel wires.
- Defect occurs when a problem in the chemical process causes the tread and steel belting to not properly bond to the tire casing. With long-term use, the tread and belting begin to separate from the casing until complete separation occurs.
Identifying Tire Tread Separation
Examples of tire separation provided by Texas Tire Sales:
- A common sign of tire tread separation is that the car will begin shaking at a certain speed (most often between 10 mph to 40 mph).
- This may begin as a small vibration, but as the problem worsens, it may feel as though the whole wheel is shaking side-to-side as though the wheel is not tightly fastened.
- The first visual indication will be a bubble along the tread or the sidewall of the tire. The bubble will continue to expand and a larger section becomes separated from the tire’s casing.
- Drivers may also notice a wavy pattern in the tread. The treads of a tire should always align straight and remain parallel. Misaligned tread patterns are an indication that the tread is not properly bonded or is losing hold.
- If tire tread separation or tire cords split is identified, repair should not be attempted. The only remedy for a tire split is to replace the tire completely.
Contact an Experienced Tire Recall Attorney
Thomas J. Henry are leaders in the area of product liability litigation. Our Defective Drug and Products Division have extensive knowledge and resources in order to represent our clients efficiently and aggressively. We represent a multitude of people who are battling against manufacturers of defective tires and tire parts.
Your choice does matter. If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto accident caused by a defective or recalled tire, call Thomas J. Henry immediately. We represent clients/victims all over the country. Our firm has offices in Houston, Corpus Christi, San Antonio, Austin, and Dallas serving clients across Texas and nationwide. Our attorneys are available 24/7, nights and weekends.
