It’s common for cars to remain parked for long periods or experience significant temperature drops overnight. In both cases, tires can develop temporary "flat-spotting." This occurs because modern tires contain a nylon cap beneath the tread. When a car is stationary, the part of the tire touching the ground flattens. If left for a while or exposed to temperature shifts, the nylon cap can temporarily "set" in this flattened shape.
How Does It Feel and Does It Go Away?
Flat-spotting causes vibrations when driving. The affected area isn't entirely flat but slightly less round than the rest of the tire. This leads to noticeable vibrations in the steering wheel and sometimes the whole vehicle. Fortunately, as the tires rotate and warm up, the nylon cap regains its shape, making the vibrations disappear. Driving at highway speeds for around 20 minutes is usually enough to resolve the issue.
How to Minimize Flat-Spotting?
While flat-spotting is temporary, it can be annoying.
To reduce the chances of it happening:
Other Types of Flat-Spotting
1. Braking-Induced Flat-Spotting – Hard braking can wear down a section of the tread, causing permanent unevenness. While it can fade over time, it may take thousands of miles. Vehicles with anti-lock brakes (ABS) rarely experience this.
2. Storage-Induced Flat-Spotting – Long-term storage with excessive inflation and heat can cause semi-permanent flat-spotting. While it eventually disappears, it takes longer than normal flat-spotting. If vibrations persist despite regular driving, consult a tire specialist, as it could indicate a more serious issue.
ASKO chain stores offer durable and reliable tires, and you can choose the right one for you at any of our branches along the way. To learn more about ASKO, fill out the form and we will contact you!
How Does It Feel and Does It Go Away?
Flat-spotting causes vibrations when driving. The affected area isn't entirely flat but slightly less round than the rest of the tire. This leads to noticeable vibrations in the steering wheel and sometimes the whole vehicle. Fortunately, as the tires rotate and warm up, the nylon cap regains its shape, making the vibrations disappear. Driving at highway speeds for around 20 minutes is usually enough to resolve the issue.
How to Minimize Flat-Spotting?
While flat-spotting is temporary, it can be annoying.
To reduce the chances of it happening:
- Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure.
- Avoid overinflation.
- Drive the vehicle regularly.
- For long-term storage, follow proper tire storage guidelines.
Other Types of Flat-Spotting
1. Braking-Induced Flat-Spotting – Hard braking can wear down a section of the tread, causing permanent unevenness. While it can fade over time, it may take thousands of miles. Vehicles with anti-lock brakes (ABS) rarely experience this.
2. Storage-Induced Flat-Spotting – Long-term storage with excessive inflation and heat can cause semi-permanent flat-spotting. While it eventually disappears, it takes longer than normal flat-spotting. If vibrations persist despite regular driving, consult a tire specialist, as it could indicate a more serious issue.
ASKO chain stores offer durable and reliable tires, and you can choose the right one for you at any of our branches along the way. To learn more about ASKO, fill out the form and we will contact you!