What Do Tire Sidewall Bubbles or Bulges Mean?

Small dents, indentations, or undulations are perfectly normal on today’s tires. But bulges or bubbles are not. Noticeable bumps pushing out from a tire’s sidewall can be a sign of serious tire damage. Let’s look at tire sidewall bulges, what they mean, how they form, and what to do if you spot one on any of your tires.

Please Note: If you notice a bulge on your tire’s sidewall, get to Les Schwab for a quick inspection and expert advice. Unsure if you should be driving on that tire? Swap it with your spare, or simply have your vehicle towed to Les Schwab.

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Marked example of a tire bubble or bulge. Sidewall bubbles can be a sign of a serious tire problem

What Causes Tire Sidewall Bubbles or Bulges

Sidewall bubbles or bulges usually form when the internal structure of the tire has been compromised or weakened. In most cases, bulges happen after hitting a pothole or curb, or driving on tires with low air pressure. In rare cases, they can form due to a manufacturing defect. When the damage is bad enough, it can compromise the tire’s integrity, leading to tire failure.

Les Schwab employee talks to a customer about their tires

Impact Damage From Potholes or Road Hazards

Hitting a pothole, curb, or other road hazard can cause damage to a tire’s sidewall. If the impact is hard enough, or if you hit the same spot a few times, it can damage the internal structure of the tire. This internal damage, or separation of the plies (rubberized cords), allows the air pressure in the tire to push out against the rubber, causing a bulge.

If you run over a large pothole or hit a curb, stop by Les Schwab and we’ll take a look.

Person adds air to their vehicle’s tire to bring it to the proper air pressure

Improper Tire Pressure

Driving on underinflated tires can damage the internal structure of a tire as well as the sidewall and tread. That’s because a tire with low air pressure can flex excessively, increasing the risk of sidewall damage. Avoid damage to your tires with free air checks at Les Schwab.

Manufacturing Defects

Although rare, bulges can be the result of a manufacturing issue. Thankfully, the Les Schwab Tire Warranty covers those possible defects.


Are Tire Sidewall Bubbles Dangerous?

Yes. Tire sidewall bulges or bubbles can be dangerous if ignored. Once they get large enough, or if the internal structure of the tire behind that bulge is severely compromised, it can lead to total tire failure. That can include slow to quick loss in tire pressure.


How To Spot a Tire Bulge

If you see a bulge, call your local Les Schwab for directions on diagnosing its severity. If you are able to make it to your local store (including changing to your spare tire for safety), our professionals will give your tires a quick inspection and offer recommendations to get you safely back on the road.

In addition to sidewall bulges, always note any new vibrations or wobbling while driving, visible cracks or cuts on the tire sidewall or tread, and deformations in the tire surface. If you notice any of those, get to your local Les Schwab.

Example of sidewall indentation or undulation. These are not a sign of danger

Sidewall Indents and What They Mean

Notice a tire indent? Don’t worry. Those are usually nothing to worry about. Small, inward-facing dents, dips, or waviness along the sidewall are called indentations (small dips) or undulations (wave-like ripples). These marks are typically part of the tire’s construction process and not a sign of damage.
Learn more about sidewall dents.

Protect Your Vehicle With Free Tire Inspections and Warranty Coverage From Les Schwab

When you choose tires from Les Schwab, you’re getting more than expert installation and service. You’re also getting our industry-leading tire warranty, including free tire inspections anytime you stop by.

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GET MORE FROM LES

  Les Schwab Tires Logo Discount Tire Costco
Extended Warranty Included Small Green Check Box Small Red X Mark Small Green Check Mark
No Certificate Required Small Green Check Box Small Red X Mark Small Green Check Mark
No Expiration Small Green Check Box Small Red X Mark Small Red X Mark
No Cost 100% Road Hazard Replacement Small Green Check Box Small Red X Mark Small Red X Mark
60-Day Satisfaction Guarantee Small Green Check Box Small Red X Mark Small Red X Mark

 

Learn More About Les Schwab’s Tire Warranty

What To Do if You Find a Bubble on Your Tire

Driving on a damaged sidewall can be unsafe. If you spot a bulge or bubble on your tire, visit your local Les Schwab for a free visual inspection. If you’re not sure if you should be driving on that tire, swap it with your spare first, or simply have your vehicle towed to Les Schwab. If you already have Les Schwab tires on your vehicle, there’s a good chance those tires are covered by America’s Best Tire Warranty, which could help save you money.

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