What Is Tyre Cupping And How To Avoid It?

Tyre cupping is a sign of underlying serious issues related to the maintenance of your car

If you notice that your car’s tyres have started to wear unevenly, the first thing you will do is to get the wheels aligned if not done or get them balanced just to be double sure. Lastly, you would take the tyre rotation option. But even if the problem persists and the wear spots are getting deeper such that they are forming cup-like depressions on the tyre, the problem is not in your tyres. It is the suspension of your car which is responsible for this mess.

In an ideal scenario, tyre cupping appears as if someone has taken out ice cream scoops from your tyre at every 3-4 inches across the circumference of the rubber. The irregular shape of the worn tyre appears scalloped, hence such tyres are often referred to as scalloped tyres.

Reasons for tyre cupping

 Faulty suspension system

The most commonly known reason for tyre cupping is the errant suspension system. The suspension of a car ensures you drive smoothly and there is controlled strain on the tyres; perhaps the suspension system is in place to take care of road undulations. However, when some part of it malfunctions, the suspension starts exerting uneven pressure on the tyre, leading it to quick wear in cupping direction.

Under-inflated tyres

Tyres not inflated up to the recommended pressures are vulnerable to stones, uneven roads, potholes and other road aberrations. Moreover, improper inflation reduces tyre life and makes it weak. 

Misaligned wheels

If your car’s wheels are not set at the right angle, the tyres will wear at a fast pace. This could lead to the situation of tyre cupping. Don’t forget to get your wheels aligned after every 6-12 months.

Cheap tyres

The cheap tyres are usually very low in quality as well. They do not undergo the standard testing phase which other branded tyres are subjected to. They are devoid of durability, thickness and even the rubber compound is not stress-resistant. Such tyres are more prone to tyre cupping.

How to avoid it?

You can avoid the situation of tyre cupping by taking some preventive measures listed below.

• During routine maintenance get your suspension checked for any issues. If needed replace the worn-out parts like CVC joints, ball joints, struts, wheel bearings, etc.
• Never drive a vehicle with underinflated tyres. Do a thorough inspection before you start the car.
• Try to use high-quality tyres as they are rigorously tested and do not bend easily.
• Routinely go for wheel alignment in 6-12 months

Recommended Read: 5 Points That Indicate When To Change Your Tyres