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7 Tips for Avoiding Blowouts on the Track

September 3, 2025
Advice, Automotive
Editorial

Nothing kills the thrill of a track day faster than a blown tire. One second you’re hugging corners like a pro, and the next, BAM, your car’s limping off the asphalt with shredded rubber and your pride in tatters. The good news? Blowouts aren’t inevitable. With a little prep and a lot of common sense, you can keep your tires (and your lap times) in check. Here are 7 tips for avoiding blowouts on the track.

  1. Check Tire Pressures Before (and During) the Fun

Your tires are under a lot more stress on the track than they’ll ever face on your commute. Heat builds fast, which means pressures rise, and that’s where blowouts love to happen. Start with manufacturer-recommended cold pressures, but don’t stop there. Re-check them after your first few laps. If you’re ignoring this step, you’re basically gambling with your rubber.

  1. Inspect for Wear and Tear Like a Hawk

Bald spots, sidewall cracks, and uneven tread aren’t just ugly; they’re dangerous. A small blemish can become a full-blown catastrophe once you’re pushing your car to its limits. Do a slow, methodical walk-around before heading onto the track. Your future self will thank you.

  1. Don’t Skimp on Quality Rubber

We get it: track days are expensive, and it’s tempting to squeeze one more season out of those old tires. But trust me, a blowout will cost you a lot more than a fresh set. High-performance tires are engineered to handle the heat, speed, and friction of the track. Cheap all-seasons? Not so much.

  1. Warm Up Before You Go Full Send

Cold tires are stiff, slick, and about as trustworthy as a wet paper bag. Give your rubber a few gentle laps to warm up before you start pushing your limits. Not only will you get better grip, but you’ll also reduce the risk of sudden failure when the tires are still waking up.

  1. Respect Your Load Limits

Overloading your car with gear (or even too many passengers on a “fun lap”) stresses your tires more than you think. Remember: tires aren’t just holding up your car, they’re absorbing every bit of force when you corner, brake, and accelerate. Treat them kindly.

  1. Use Your Tech to Your Advantage

Modern cars are equipped with tools like TPMS (tire pressure monitoring systems) that can give you real-time feedback. Don’t ignore those little warning lights. If your TPMS says something’s wrong, it’s not nagging; it’s trying to save you from a shredded tire and a ruined day.

  1. Cool Down Laps Are Not Optional

After you’ve gone hard, give your tires a breather with a cool-down lap. It helps distribute heat evenly and reduces the risk of blowouts caused by sudden, uneven cooling. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to wave smugly at your buddies as you glide by.

The Bottom Line

Track days are about adrenaline, not accidents. A blowout can ruin more than just your lap time; it can wreck your car, your confidence, and your wallet. Treat your tires with the respect they deserve, and they’ll reward you with grip, speed, and maybe even a new personal best.