Illustrated examples of common tire conditions and wheel/tire mounting basics.
These drawings are educational examples only. They do not show your tire and are not a safety verdict. Only a qualified technician can assess an actual tire.
A localized bulge on the sidewall usually means internal structural damage.
What to look for: A raised, rounded bump on the side of the tire.
Next step: Treat as serious: stop using the tire and have it professionally inspected for replacement.
Source: NHTSA tire safetyFine surface cracks can appear as rubber weathers; deeper cracks are more concerning.
What to look for: Small lines or cracks in the sidewall rubber, especially near the rim or lettering.
Next step: Have a technician assess crack depth. Follow manufacturer guidance for any age threshold.
Source: NHTSA tire safetyA cut deep enough to show internal cords means the tire structure is damaged.
What to look for: A gash in the sidewall where fabric or wire threads are visible.
Next step: Treat as serious: do not drive on it and have it professionally inspected for replacement.
Source: NHTSA tire safetyAn object in the tread can cause slow or sudden air loss.
What to look for: A nail, screw or hole in the tread area.
Next step: Do not remove the object yourself; have a shop check if a proper repair is possible.
Source: NHTSA tire safetyPieces of tread can tear away after impacts or rough surfaces.
What to look for: Missing tread blocks or gouges in the tread.
Next step: Have the tire professionally inspected.
Source: NHTSA tire safetyTread layers can begin to separate from the casing.
What to look for: A wave, ridge or lifted edge in the tread surface.
Next step: Treat as serious: stop driving on it and seek professional inspection.
Source: NHTSA tire safetyWhen the tread wears or tears through, reinforcement layers become visible.
What to look for: Wires or fabric showing through the tread surface.
Next step: Treat as serious: do not drive on it and have it professionally inspected.
Source: NHTSA tire safetyCenter, edge, one-sided wear or cupping show the tire wears unevenly. Appearance alone does not prove the cause.
What to look for: Tread deeper in some areas than others, or scalloped dips around the tread.
Next step: Have a shop check tire pressure, rotation and alignment.
Source: NHTSA tire safetyWear bars are raised strips in the grooves. When the tread is level with them, tread remaining is low.
What to look for: Tread surface flush with the small bars inside the grooves.
Next step: Measure tread depth or have it checked; plan replacement per local rules.
Source: NHTSA tire safetyA flattened area can form after hard braking or long parking.
What to look for: A section of tread that looks flattened, or vibration while driving.
Next step: Have the tire and wheel inspected.
Source: NHTSA tire safetyThe bead seals the tire to the wheel. Damage here can cause leaks or mounting problems.
What to look for: Cuts, tears or deformation where the tire meets the rim.
Next step: Mounting and sealing problems need professional inspection.
Source: NHTSA tire safetyRubber can harden and crack over time. Age is read from the DOT code.
What to look for: Faded, brittle-looking rubber with visible weathering or cracking.
Next step: Check the DOT date and follow manufacturer guidance; ask a technician to assess.
Source: NHTSA tire safetyGeneral education only. Follow your vehicle manufacturer's specifications and use professional installation when in doubt.
Vehicle-specific information not verified. Check your owner's manual or door-jamb placard for your exact vehicle.
Use the size on your door-jamb placard or owner's manual, such as 225/45R17.
Search related videos on YouTubeBolt pattern, center bore, offset and width must match your vehicle.
Search related videos on YouTubeA rotation arrow on the sidewall shows which way the tire must roll forward.
Search related videos on YouTubeAsymmetric tires marked OUTSIDE must face outward on the vehicle.
Search related videos on YouTubeMany vehicles have pressure sensors at the valve stem; they must be handled carefully and may need relearning.
Search related videos on YouTubeLug nuts or bolts must match the wheel's seat type and thread.
Search related videos on YouTubeTighten lugs in a star pattern to your vehicle manufacturer's torque value, and re-check after driving.
Search related videos on YouTubeMounting, balancing and TPMS service are best done by a qualified shop.
Search related videos on YouTubeVideo links open YouTube search results from third parties. They are not official TireMatch guidance.