What can cause a tire to explode?

The question seems simple. From any damage, right? Yes, but what if most stories about a blown tire start with the words "I was driving on a smooth road and doing nothing, and then - BAM". Yes, it's almost certainly true. But the issue here is not a defect, as many might think. Let's break down the main reasons for such damage.

A modern tire seems to be a solid piece of rubber, but it's not. Multiple layers of rubber, carcass, and breaker prevent rapid pressure loss in case of damage. Especially if the damage is caused by running over a screw. Our roads are simply strewn with screws that hold license plates, lockers, etc. A screw won't let the tire lose pressure sharply. This loss will be gradual. Often it's simply imperceptible. What happens next?

Next, overheating occurs. As the pressure in the tire decreases, the number of deformations of the sidewall increases. The aforementioned layers are destroyed. If you drive for a long time and at high speed, a sudden tire blowout is highly likely.

Also, don't forget about careless punctures or low-quality tire repairs. Air begins to wander between the layers of the tire, weakening the bonds between them. The tire simply starts to delaminate. This can also lead to a blowout while driving.

After the tire is damaged beyond recognition, even an expert examination can't always determine the initial cause. But often, it's a small detail like a screw or a low-quality repair that served as the initial cause. Be attentive to your tires, especially before long trips.