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: View Of A Curb Impact

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, 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: Identifying Pinching On Sidewall Of Tire

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, 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: Identifying Interior View Of A Tire With A Punctured Carcass

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, 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: Identifying Inside Tire Damage Due To Impact Damage (Double Rupture)

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

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