Broken belts in tires usually come from defects during the manufacturing process. However, they can occur from improper mounting, degraded and aged rubber, extreme heat, oversteering, and debris. Belts break into small pieces and change the shape of the tire. The broken bits cause bumps in the tire, making it lumpy and causing a bad ride on the vehicle. When manufacturers notice broken belts in their tires, they often issue a recall. Where there is one broken belt, there will always be more. Broken belts are dangerous and can happen while the vehicle is moving down the road. Let’s explore the causes of broken belts in tires, so you know the signs and stay safe.

Rough Roads and High Speeds

Tires take the brunt of abuse on any vehicle. They are responsible for making the ride smooth and keeping the car on the road. Gravel roads or roads full of potholes damage tires in a big way. Every hit and bump a tire experiences contributes to its degradation. Continued abuse will weaken the belts to the point that they begin to fail. Avoid gravel roads and hitting potholes at high speeds as much as possible.

Tread Separation

Tire tread is the pattern and grooves on a tire that help it grab the road. The tread allows the vehicle to grip the road in all conditions, good or bad. Without the tread, the tires will slip and spin. Treadless tires, sometimes called slicks, are used by dragsters to race. Tread separation occurs when the tread breaks loose from the rest of the tire, leaving it bald. It can peel off like a banana peel, leaving the driver with diminished control over the vehicle.

Defective Belts

The belts in tires are steel cords that help the tire retain its shape. The belts are built into the layers of rubber and give the tire strength and durability. Most tires manufacturers don’t make their own belts, and instead, source them from an outside vendor. While most vendors likely maintain rigorous quality control measures, they are still an outside vendor, and the products are, therefore, out of the tire maker’s control. The plant could have a bad day or use some bad steel. Whatever the problem is, it will inevitably lead to larger problems down the line. Poorly made belts aren’t as strong and can break into pieces, compromising the quality of the whole tire. For the latest wheels and quality tires in Anderson, SC come to RNR Tire Express today. We understand the different causes of broken belts in tires and can help you find the right tires for your vehicle.