How can you identify a defective tire?

Identifying a defective tire involves a thorough visual inspection to look for specific signs that indicate damage or wear. Observing bulges, blisters, or any irregular wear patterns on the tire's surface is crucial because these conditions can suggest that there is internal damage or that the tire is not properly inflated. Bulges and blisters are often signs of air pockets or weak spots, which can lead to blowouts. Irregular wear patterns can indicate misalignment, improper inflation, or suspension problems. Recognizing these indicators is vital for maintaining vehicle safety and performance on the road.

The other methods mentioned, such as checking the tire brand, assessing the age of the tire, or measuring the tire's width, do not provide the direct visual and mechanical assessment necessary to determine a tire's condition effectively. While brand and age can contribute to tire performance, they don't reliably indicate the immediate physical state of a tire. Measurements may not reveal any critical issues unless correlated with visual inspections that highlight wear and damage.