Few things are scarier than hearing a loud BANG! while driving, only to realize one of your tires has just given up on life. A blowout can happen in an instant, but how you react in those critical seconds can mean the difference between a close call and a crash.
As your trusted auto repair shop in O'Fallon, Missouri, Hillside Auto Repair is here to guide you through handling a blowout safely—and, more importantly, how to prevent one from happening in the first place.
What to Do When a Tire Blowout Happens
1. Stay Calm & Grip the Wheel Firmly
Panicking and jerking the wheel is the fastest way to lose control. Instead:
- Hold the steering wheel with both hands.
- Keep the car going straight—resist the urge to overcorrect.
2. Do NOT Slam on the Brakes
Sudden braking can cause your vehicle to spin out. Instead:
- Ease off the gas and let the car slow naturally.
- Once speed drops, gently apply brakes to pull over safely.
3. Pull Over to a Safe Spot
- Turn on your hazards and coast to the side of the road.
- Avoid stopping on a curve or narrow shoulder—find a flat, open area if possible.
What Causes a Tire Blowout? (And How to Avoid Them)
1. Underinflation = Tire Overheating
Low tire pressure causes excessive flexing, leading to heat buildup and eventual failure.
✅ Prevent it: Check tire pressure monthly (including the spare!) and before long trips.
2. Worn Tread = Less Grip, More Risk
Bald tires can’t handle road stress, making blowouts more likely.
✅ Prevent it: Use the "penny test"—insert a penny into the tread (Lincoln’s head down). If you see his whole head, it’s time for new tires.
3. Dry Rot = Cracked, Brittle Tires
Old tires (even with good tread) can crack from sun exposure and age.
✅ Prevent it: Replace tires over 6 years old, even if they look fine.
4. Misalignment = Uneven Wear
If your car pulls to one side, your tires are wearing unevenly, increasing blowout risk.
✅ Prevent it: Get a wheel alignment check at Hillside Auto Repair if you notice steering issues.
Bonus Tip: Rotate Your Tires!
Regular rotations help tires wear evenly, extending their life and reducing blowout risks. Did you know? At Hillside Auto Repair, we offer FREE tire rotations when you purchase all four tires from us! (Ask your service advisor for details.)
Trust Your Tires to the Pros at Hillside Auto Repair
We don’t just fix cars—we help O’Fallon drivers stay safe with:
✔ Expert tire inspections & replacements
✔ Precision wheel alignments
✔ Comprehensive auto repairs (using dealership-grade tools)
✔ A 3-year/36,000-mile warranty on all services
Because your car should be as reliable as your morning coffee—not a surprise roadside disaster.
A blowout is like a bad breakup—it’s messy, loud, and usually happens at the worst time. But with the right prep, you can walk away unscathed.