How can you tell if your tires are overinflated?

When tires are overinflated, one of the most noticeable signs is that they will bulge in the center. This occurs because excess air pressure causes the tire's middle section to expand outward more than the sides. As a result, the tread will wear out more quickly in the middle than on the edges, leading to uneven wear patterns. This bulging is a key indicator of overinflation because a properly inflated tire maintains an even shape and tread wear across the entire surface.

In contrast, flat tires would typically show signs of being underinflated, where the sides might compress and the tread would appear less rounded. Uniform wear suggests that the tires are inflated correctly and are functioning well under even pressure. Lastly, tires that are not retaining air may indicate a leak or puncture, which is unrelated to inflation levels but rather to the tire's integrity. Thus, the observation of bulging in the center is crucial in identifying overinflation.