Tire overheating is a common problem that can compromise vehicle safety and performance.
Some factors such as incorrect pressure, excessive speed and high asphalt temperature can contribute to this problem.
Find out what can cause overheating, the main warning signs and how to prevent it in order to extend the life of your tires and ensure safe driving.
What Is Tire Overheating?
Tire overheating occurs when the temperature of the tire rises above the normal level, which compromises its performance and durability.
This phenomenon can cause premature wear, loss of grip and, in extreme cases, even tire blowout.
What Can Cause Tires To Overheat?
Tire overheating can occur due to various factors, from maintenance errors to adverse road conditions.
Explore some of these conditions in more detail.
1. Incorrect Tire Pressure
If the tires are underinflated, they create more friction with the ground and heat up quickly.
On the other hand, if the pressure is higher than recommended, the contact surface with the road decreases, which increases the risk of overheating and blowing out.
2. Excessive Speed
Driving at high speed generates more friction between the tires and the road, raising the temperature of the rubber.
On long journeys without breaks, heat can build up and affect the durability of the tires.
3. Excess Vehicle Weight
Tires overheat more when the vehicle is overloaded.
The more weight you carry, the greater the pressure on the tires. As a result, more heat is generated and rubber wear is accelerated, making tire overheating more probable, especially on long journeys.
4. High Asphalt Temperatures
On hot days, the asphalt can reach extreme temperatures, transferring heat directly to the tires.
5. Aggressive Driving
Hard braking, sudden acceleration and sharp turns increase the friction between the tires and the road, raising the temperature. As a result, the rubber wears out more quickly.
What Can Cause Tires To Overheat When Driving At Slow Speeds For A Long Time?
It may seem that tires only overheat at high speeds. However, driving slowly for too long can also be a risk. This is because:
- There is less air circulation around the tires, making it harder for the heat to dissipate:
- Continuous friction with the ground keeps the tires warm without cooling breaks.
What Happens If You Put Too Much Air In Your Tires?
Putting too much air in your tires can compromise your vehicle’s grip and safety. With excess pressure, the contact area between the tire and the road is reduced, which decreases traction and increases the risk of skidding, especially when cornering or on wet roads.
In addition, over-inflated tires become more rigid and absorb less impact from the road. This makes driving more uncomfortable and can accelerate irregular wear of the rubber, leading to cracks or deformations in the tire structure.
Another problem is the increased risk of blowouts. Overinflated tires are more vulnerable to damage from potholes, curbs or objects in the road.
To avoid these situations, it is essential to check the pressure regularly and adjust it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
What Is The Correct Tire Pressure?
The correct tire pressure varies depending on the vehicle and can be found in the manufacturer’s manual or on the label on the driver’s door. As a general rule, it is recommended:
- Measure the pressure when the tires are cold to obtain accurate values;
- Respect the values indicated by the manufacturer to ensure safety and efficiency;
- Check the pressure regularly to avoid overheating in the tires.
What Are The Signs Of Overheating Tires?
Recognizing the signs of overheating is essential if you want to act in time and avoid more serious problems.
Here are the main signs that your tires may be overheating.
1. Tire Pressure Above Normal
Excessive heat can cause the air inside the tire to expand, increasing the internal pressure.
If you notice an unusual rise in tire pressure after a trip, this could indicate overheating of the tires.
2. Tire Surface Too Hot To Touch
After driving, especially on hot days or at high speed, touch the sidewall of the tire carefully.
If it’s too hot, it could be a sign that the tire is overheating.
3. Irregular Wear Of The Rubber
Excessive heating can lead to uneven wear, forming bubbles or cracks in the rubber.
As a result, the tire lasts less and the grip on the road is compromised.
On the other hand, if you smell an intense odor of burnt rubber, it’s a sign that you should stop the car safely to let the tires cool down before continuing your journey.
4. Feeling Unstable While Driving
If you notice that the car is less stable, with less grip or difficulty responding to maneuvers, the tires may be losing traction due to overheating.
How To Prevent Tire Overheating?
To prevent the tires from overheating, you should:
- Choose quality tires;
- Maintain the correct tire pressure;
- Avoid carrying too much weight in the vehicle;
- Driving defensively, avoiding sudden braking and acceleration to reduce friction;
- Take breaks on long journeys to allow the tires to cool down and prevent them from overheating.
When Should Tire Pressure Be Checked?
Tire pressure should be checked at least once a month and before long journeys.
It is important to measure the pressure when the tires are cold, as heat can change the real values.
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