I apply the brakes very hard. Did I create a flat spot on the tires?
Almost everyone, at some point in their driving experience, will hit the brakes. Hitting the brakes is usually more than just an emotional reaction to a situation. When you are avoiding an accident or reacting to...
Almost everyone, at some point in their driving experience, will hit the brakes. Hitting the brakes is usually more than just an emotional reaction to a situation. When avoiding a crash or reacting to unexpected flashing lights at a crosswalk, the safety element is paramount, and hitting the brakes is an appropriate response to a panic situation.
Now that you've hit the brakes, you need to determine if you've caused any damage. It is possible that you have rubbed off a flat spot on the tires. When you hit the brakes, there are several possible outcomes:
- Your brakes are locked
- Your car skidded without steering
- You heard a loud squeal until you stopped
- There was repetitive chatter or chirping
- You have arrived at a controlled stop
If you came to controlled stopno matter how hard you have to brake, it is unlikely that you have created a flat spot on the tires. Almost all new vehicles are equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) to prevent loss of control and skidding when braking. ABS activates the brakes dozens of times per second to prevent the brakes from locking up during heavy braking or on slippery roads.
If you did not have proper steering control or if your brakes squealed the entire time you were stopped, your car is most likely not equipped with anti-lock brakes or they are not working properly. In this case, you may have worn out flat spots on the tires that locked up under braking. Have your tires checked as soon as possible as flat spot tires can cause several problems such as:
- Vibrates steering wheel while driving
- Reduced fuel consumption due to increased rolling resistance.
- Increased chance of losing traction in future situations
If you have blocked your brakes and think you may be worn out, one of our mechanics should inspect your tires and replace them if necessary. There is no way to fix a flat spot on a tire other than by changing the tire.
