A broken belt in tires can occur due to various factors. It may result from manufacturing defects, driving on rough roads at high speeds, or tread separation. Other causes include incorrect installation, overinflation, and tire wear. When a belt breaks, you may notice unusual noises, an inconsistent tire shape, vibrations, and unstable steering.
We have listed all the symptoms of this issue you need to look out for, as well as fixes including costs. Read more to find out how you may prevent a broken belt in a tire and protect your car.
What Causes Broken Belt in Tire?
A broken belt in a tire can occur due to various factors. Here are some common causes to consider:
Firstly, manufacturing defects can contribute to a broken belt. Since tire belts are often outsourced by car companies, they may have limited control over the quality.
Additionally, driving over rough roads at high speeds can place excessive stress on the tires. The repeated impact of bumps and shocks weakens the tires over time, leading to potential belt breakage.
Tread separation is another common cause. The tire tread, which covers the steel belts within the tire, can separate when the adhesion between the tread and belts is lost.
It can happen due to underinflation of tires, improper repairing of tires, rough driving or due to the manufacturer’s defect. Once the tread falls apart, the weaker core of the tire is exposed to the road, causing a blowout.
Incorrect installation can lead to uneven wear in tires. For instance, if the tire is mounted at the wrong angle, it is likely to undergo uneven wear. This uneven wear occurs when the tire bears the total weight of the car, causing structural damage such as broken belts over time.
Overinflation of tires is another factor to consider. When you overinflate your tire, it increases its rigidity. As a result, the tire’s ability to absorb shocks decreases. Consequently, when the car is driven over potholes or aggressive terrains, the tire becomes unable to effectively absorb shock, increasing the likelihood of tire belt snapping.
Worn-out tires present their own set of risks. When a tire is worn out, its outer surface is completely exposed. This exposes the steel belts within the tire, which can come into direct contact with the road. This contact can cause a tire blowout or, in some cases, excessive heat buildup leading to belt failure.
To avoid tire belt issues, drive cautiously, especially on rough roads, and regularly inspect tires for signs of wear or damage. Additionally, ensure correct tire installation, maintain proper tire pressure, and promptly replace worn-out tires to ensure tire longevity and safety.
Symptoms of Broken Belt in Tire
When a tire has a broken belt, specific symptoms become evident, indicating a problem. These symptoms include:
- Noises: Thumping sounds occur at both high and low speeds. How to reduce road noise from tires? Make sure the tires are inflated properly and you avoid poor and rough roads.
- Inconsistent Tire Shape: The presence of numerous small bumps on the tire indicates a broken belt.
- Increased Vibration: A broken belt causes uneven areas on the tire, leading to vibrations while driving.
- Shaky Steering: Initially, this may cause the car to pull to one side. If the belts are fully broken, steering control may be lost.
Although not all symptoms may occur at the same time, the presence of multiple symptoms indicates a possible broken belt in the tire. It is important to monitor these signs closely to promptly address any issues and ensure proper tire maintenance.
How Long Can You Drive With A Broken Belt In Tire?
If the damage to the tire belt is not severe, it’s possible to drive up to 50 miles. Nonetheless, it’s strongly recommended to immediately visit a tire shop for repair if the belt appears heavily damaged.
While it’s technically feasible to continue driving with a broken tire belt, it’s not advisable. The weight of the car will cause the affected tire to deform and overheat, posing a risk of tire blowout and other serious hazards. It’s best to prioritize safety and address the issue as soon as possible.
What Happens If A Tire Belt Breaks?
Tires with broken belts pose serious risks if not repaired. They may eventually detach, leading to potential accidents. Moreover, the broken belt rubbing against adjacent components can generate sparks, increasing the risk of engine compartment fires.
To ensure safety on the road, fix the issue as soon as possible.
What Happens if A Tire Belt Breaks While Driving?
If you’re driving with a flat tire and your tire belt breaks, there is almost no risk of a tire blowout.
However, if the faulty tire is partially or over inflated, there’s still some risk of an explosion. This can lead to dangerous situations such as sliding into a ditch or flipping over to another lane.
To prevent such accidents the safest step is to take your car off the road upon sensing a broken belt in the tire.
How to Fix A Broken Tire Belt ?
Fixing a tire with a broken belt is not possible due to the way the belts are integrated during manufacturing. It is impossible to reattach the separated belt to the tire. Your best option is to visit a mechanic and have the tire replaced.
Cost Of Replacing A Tire with a Broken Belt
If you have the required tools for this job, you can choose to replace your tires at home. Have a look at the table below for tire prices. Prices may vary according to the size, diameter, and type of the tire.
| Type of tire | Tire price range |
| Used/retreaded/standard car tire | $20 ( or less) |
| New tire | $100-$1,000 ( or more) |
Here is a table summarizing the costs of tools you will need for the replacement.
| Tool needed | Market cost range |
| Portable jack | $27-$700 |
| Lug wrench | $10-$25 |
| Wheel wedges | $10-$25 |
| Tire pressure gauge | $2-$100 |
In addition to the cost of tires, installation charges will apply if you replace your tire with a mechanic.
Typically, installation costs may be $20-$100, depending on the shop you choose.
Moreover, many dealerships offer warranties that cover the entire cost of tire replacements.
FAQ
Is It Okay To Replace A Single Tire?
It is if you have to replace it due to any accident that make tire useless. But It is not okay to replace just a single tire if all tires has gone though same length of light as it will cause problems later. Replacing only one tire results in different tread depth, affecting braking, acceleration, and cornering abilities. For smoother rides, improved traction, and easier vehicle handling, it’s best to replace all four tires simultaneously.
How Long Does A Tire Last?
The lifespan of a tire varies depending on factors such as driving style, maintenance, and road conditions. On average, a good quality all-season tire can last three to five years. However, continuous driving on rough roads or exposure to harsh weather conditions like ice and snow can shorten tire longevity. Aggressive driving behaviors, such as rapid acceleration and hard braking, also contribute to reduced tire life. Regular maintenance and cautious driving can help maximize the lifespan of your tires.
Why Do My Tires Have Flat Spots?
Flat spots may appear on your tires when there are significant changes in temperature. For example, if your car is parked outside in cold weather or stored for extended periods. Similarly, a combination of high temperatures and low tire pressure can lead to semi-permanent flat-spotting.
Closing Words
In conclusion, broken belt in tire is a serious issue that needs to be kept in check for safe driving and vehicle maintenance.
We hope this article has provided you with a complete picture of concerns related to broken belt in tires, and how to prevent them.
