What are the risks of overfilling a tire? A mechanic has gone viral with a humorous portrayal of what can go wrong when a tire is dangerously overfilled.
In a Facebook reel that’s generated over 1 million views as of this writing, Nathan Coleman (@nathan.coleman.9275439) displays the real fears that run through mechanics’ heads when they overfill a tire well beyond its recommended pressure.
In the post, Coleman uses a video meme of two dogs representing two mechanics in the auto shop overfilling tires with air.
"Ticking Time Bomb," the caption reads.
"Me and the homie when the tire is at 121psi and the bead hasn’t popped yet," the onscreen text reads.
The reel uses a scared dog meme to represent the tension of filling up tires well over the suggested pounds per square inch (PSI). The grungy song selection of "Covet" by Basement adds to the discomfort as the tension builds.
Why Do Tires Explode?
There are a handful of reasons why tires explode. According to CarParts, here are some factors that will cause tires to explode:
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- Incorrect Inflation: Following the recommended PSI is essential to avoid blowouts. Tire blowouts can occur when tires are either under- or over-inflated. The general rule of thumb is to keep tires filled to the recommended PSI listed out on the driver's door.
- Reckless Driving: Rolling over sharp objects or speeding can lead to blowouts. Tires are built to be durable; however, going excessively over the speed limit alters their functionally. Additionally, any sharp object can puncture the tire's surface, leading to air quickly releasing.
- Heat: Most common reason tires explode. When temperature builds, the tire naturally expands. Once it reaches its threshold, the rubber can get worn down and eventually rupture.
- Excessive Vehicle Weight: Too much weight puts extra pressure on your tires. Overloading your vehicle will lead to uneven tread wear, which can cause the weakest tire to explode.
- Faulty Tires: Any physical damage to the tire including cracks, cuts, and bulges can lead to a blowout.
- Weather Cracking: UV exposure, oils from the roads, and contact with chemicals can affect tires' condition. This impacts the tires' rubber, which can cause cracks to form.
How To Prevent Tires From Exploding
Dealing with a tire blowout is never something a driver wants to deal with. As there are many factors that can lead to a tire blowout, it’s best to know ways to prevent it from happening.
According to Chapel Hill Tire, there are four things you can do to prevent a tire blowout:
- Always keep tires inflated at the manufacturer recommended PSI. This ensures the tire is properly filled and prevents a blowout happening from under- or over-inflation.
- Steer clear from any hazards on the road. Nails are notorious for being on the shoulder of the road and potholes should also be avoided if possible.
- Replace old tires when the time is appropriate. Tires are impacted by age, mileage, and weather environments. Accidents are three times more likely to happen when driving on poor tire conditions.
- Keep up with regularly scheduled maintenance. This will include tire rotations and should be inspected during oil changes.
A Relatable Experience
Many viewers shared their own stories about overfilling tires.
"Lmao I be stopping at 100 respectfully. Reseat it, re-lube it, spit on it, something," one wrote.
"Takes 140-150psi to seat my Pirelli slicks. Makes me pucker every single time," another added.
"Give it good old whack with a hammer. lol solves the issue but creates a new one. Where did my hammer go or where did my teeth go," one joked.
Others revealed their boundaries when it comes to filling tires.
"Had a tire explode in my face back as a lube tech with only 44 psi and I had long Jesus like hair to my lower back and it blew it all back like an old L'Oreal commercial with Fabio. I still stop at 43 psi and let someone else deal with it," said one.
"Oh man, anything over 55 is no go," a second suggested.
"Used to do 90 till I saw a big dude fly across another shop, now 65," said a third.
Via Instagram direct message, Coleman declined to comment further.
