Cupping, or "scalloping" of the tires on a vehicle is a primary concern for any driver. Cupping is when a vehicle's tires are exposed to more wear and tear than normal in one of a variety of ways. Cupping can be resultant of a repair issue or from low quality tires and needs to be recognized for the hazardous condition it is.
What Is Cupping?
Cupping is when a vehicle's tires have indentations in them. Cupping is caused by worse than normal wear, tear and pressure on the surface of the tire that takes small pieces and sections of the tires surface off. The remaining spots are smoothed during driving so they're called "cupping" as opposed to "chipping." Cupping may be referred to by some professionals as "scalloping."
Driving on tires that are cupping is not a safe scenario for drivers since there is less contact between the surface of the tire and that of the road. Less contact means less traction and control for starting and stopping.
What Causes Cupping in Tires?
The majority of cases of cupping happens in inexpensive low-. Higher quality tires are better able to resist chipping by the environment that causes cupping in cheaper tires. Consumers should have high quality tires installed on their vehicles.
Another Cause of Cupping
Even if the tires are higher quality, and cupping still occurs, the problem might be with an errant suspension on the vehicle. If the suspension on a vehicle allows for the tires to bounce, as the vehicle rolls along, the extra action will make scuff marks on the tires, resulting in cupping.
Unfortunately, when the cause is the suspension, a qualified mechanic must replace the suspension and the tires. Since there's a risk of the cause being a serious repair like suspension, having a mechanic check the vehicle is often worth the expense, in spite of the time it will take.
Odd Cupping Situations
If the tires experiencing cupping are on the rear only, the cause of the problem may just be with the vehicle's alignment. Fortunately, in such cases, purchasing new tires and an alignment adjustment is more economical than replacing suspension and tires. If in doubt as to the condition your tires, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic.
Two Easy Ways to Note a Problem With Your Tires
Look for indentations and an uneven surface that resembles "scallops" in the tread of the tire, where a driver should expect to see a smooth surface. You also might notice a slight rumbling sound as the vehicle moves. This sound most likely comes from the cupped spots on the tires. If either of these situations are noticed, take your vehicle to a trained mechanic.
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