Impact Damage

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A swelling in the flank of the tire indicates that the substructure of the carcass has been damaged.

Typical causes for such damage include, for example, driving over curbs at a sharp angle.

Fig 1: Example Of Curb Impact

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

Pinching the carcass of a tire this way can damage the carcass.

The substructure of the tire is stretched so far that individual fibers in the carcass may break.

The extent of the damage depends on the speed of impact, the angle of impact, the air pressure, the axle load and the type of obstacle.

Evidence of Pinching on the Sidewall of a Tire -arrows-

Fig 2: Evidence Of Pinching On Sidewall Of Tire

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

NOTE:

Driving over curbs must be avoided!

When it cannot be avoided, curbs should be driven over very slowly at the bluntest possible angle.

Interior View of a Tire with a Punctured Carcass

Fig 3: Interior View Of A Tire With A Punctured Carcass

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

Due to a severe impact, the carcass was pinched on the rim flange and is ruptured in the contact patch.

Inside Tire Damage Due to Impact Damage (Double Rupture)

Fig 4: Inside Tire Damage Due To Impact Damage (Double Rupture)

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN UNITED STATES, INC.

Double rupture -arrows- caused by pinching when driving over a curb. Often not detectable from outside.