Can Your Tires Pop From Over Inflation? (DON'T Do This)

Can you get a flat tire from having too much air pressure in them? Some people swear by the practice of over-inflating their tires, believing that it will make their car handle better and last longer, but are you risking a blowout?

Yes, it’s certainly possible to have tires pop from over inflation but it’s not overly likely. Here’s what you should really know.

It’s an issue we’ve thought about a lot and our team of experts has worked to get to the bottom of it. So, here’s the truth about whether tire pressure can lead to a blowout.

Can tires pop from over Inflation?

Yes, it is possible to get a flat or burst tire from using too much air pressure.

When you put too much air in a tire, the excess pressure can cause the rubber to expand beyond its limits. This can lead to a blowout or even a full-on tire explosion. It’s important to be careful when inflating your tires, and make sure that you only use the recommended pressure levels as listed in your car’s owner’s manual.

However, it’s important to note that the likelihood of your tires bursting directly due to overinflating isn’t very likely. You need roughly 200psi to pop a tire which is possible with over inflating but it would be pretty tough.

You’re far more likely to see your tires burst due to worn tread, cheap materials, and hitting debris.

Factors that can contribute to overinflated tires bursting

A leak from the tire bead

The tire bead is the part of the tire that sits on the rim of the wheel. It is the main thing that helps contain the air pressure within your tire. Once the tire becomes overinflated, this bead can start to leak which can lead to a blowout.

Spare tires

A spare tire is only a temporary solution and should not be used for long-term driving. Because they are often smaller than the rest of your vehicle’s tires, it’s very easy to over-inflate a spare tire. This can lead to it popping or bursting when you go to use it. So, keep this in mind next time you change to a spare.

Problems with over-inflated car tires

Just because it’s extremely unlikely that you will pop your tires through over inflating, it doesn’t mean there aren’t problems with doing this.

When you have too much air pressure in your car tires, it can cause a number of issues. Overinflated tires can wear out more quickly, and they can also be more prone to blowouts. Additionally, overinflated tires can be less stable and more difficult to control. This can be especially dangerous when driving at high speeds or in bad weather conditions.

How does air pressure affect your car’s handling?

If you have too much air in your tires, your car will feel “floaty” and it will be harder to control. On the other hand, if you don’t have enough air in your tires, your car will feel “heavy” and it will be harder to control.

What is the purpose of tire pressure and why do we need it?

Tire pressure is important because it helps to maintain the shape and performance of your car tires. When you have the correct air pressure in your tires, it ensures that they will grip the road properly and help you to stay safe while driving.

It’s important to keep track of your tire pressure levels and make sure that they are within the recommended range for your vehicle.

What are the recommended tire pressure levels?

There are a number of recommended pressure levels for car tires, and it’s important to make sure that you are using the correct levels for your vehicle. You can find the recommended levels in your car’s owner’s manual, on a sticker on the inside of the drivers door, or you can check with the manufacturer’s website.

Generally, the recommended pressure levels will be different for front and rear tires, as well as for different types of terrain (such as highway or off-road driving).

It’s important to check your tire pressure regularly, as even a small change can impact the performance of your tires. If you’re unsure about how to properly check or inflate your tires, you can always take them to a professional mechanic or an automotive store.

Are there benefits to overinflating tires?

Some people believe that over-inflating their tires can help to improve their gas mileage. However, this is not true. In fact, over-inflating your tires can actually decrease your gas mileage by making them less efficient.

When to check your tire pressure

You should check your tire pressure at least once a month, and more often if you drive in extreme weather conditions. It is also important to check your tire pressure when you first buy new tires, as the recommended air pressure levels may be different from your old ones.

Tips for maintaining proper tire pressure

To keep your tires in good condition, it’s important to maintain the correct air pressure levels. You can do this by checking your tire pressure regularly and topping up as needed.

Other causes of a tire bursting

While overinflated tires are the most common cause of tire bursting, there are other factors that can contribute to this. Some of these include:

Tire defects or flaws
Excessive speed
Hitting a pothole or large object

Driving on underinflated tires for an extended period of time
Running over something sharp like a nail or piece of glass

It’s important to be aware of all the possible causes of a tire bursting so that you can take steps to prevent it from happening.

FAQ

Where do I go to inflate my tires?

You can usually inflate your tires at any gas station as they will have and air pump available. You can also stop by any shop and they will usually be happy to help at no cost. You can also use portable air pumps yourself at home.

What do I do if I accidentally over inflate my tires?

If you accidentally over inflate your tires, it is easy enough to let some of the air out. Simply push the pin in the middle of the valve until you hear the hissing sound of air escaping. Check our full guide on how to let air out a tire here.

What to do next

It’s certainly possible to burst your tires through over inflating, though this isn’t likely to be the primary cause. You need 200psi to pop a tire which is admittedly difficult to do but our team has certainly seen it happen from time to time.

Ultimately, things like old and worn tires or debris on the road are more likely to lead to a popped tire. And chances are, one of these things was the primary factor if you’re thinking that over inflating led you to a burst tire.

On top of that, getting cheap tires can make you more prone to bursting and a potential accident. That’s why we’ve put together our guides to help you find the perfect tire for your vehicle.

We hope you enjoyed this article and found it informative. If you have any questions then please leave a comment below or get in touch via email or through social media and we will read and respond to every comment, email or question. Thanks for reading!