Tire, Wheel, and Brake Failure Analysis

A tire/wheel and its braking mechanism form an intricate and complex system that can be prone to failure if not maintained properly. Tire, wheel, and brake failures or defects can cause a vehicle to lose control and may contribute to serious collisions, injuries, and even fatalities. Tire, wheel, and brake-related defects are often related to age, poor maintenance or manufacturing, improper mounting or installation, overheating or misuse, impacts (with other vehicles or objects), or human error.

Often, a tire or brake issue will only become apparent after a collision or similar loss has occurred. Some people are quick to blame mechanical components for the issue. Envista can step in and determine if the issue was pre-existing or if the issue occurred because of the collision. For example, we can determine whether a vehicle was rear-ended because the other vehicle's brake system was inoperable, or if the brake system was inoperable because of the collision.

Envista's experts are well versed in the manufacturing, operation, and regulatory requirements for tire, wheel, and brake systems. Our forensic mechanics are trained in the analysis and determination of pre-existing mechanical failures.

Tire and Wheel Failure Analysis

Our tire and wheel failure analyses and forensic services include:

• Failure analysis of remaining tire components
• Wheel separations from moving vehicles
• Sudden air loss and deflation/blowouts
• Mismatching of lug nuts and wheel, or wheel and tire components
• Tread separation
• Age defects and regulatory requirements
• Valve mechanics and cyclical failure

Brake Failure Analysis

Our brake failure analyses and forensic services include:

• Loss of hydraulic or pneumatic pressure; cause of the pressure loss
• Brake requirements and a minimum standard of care
• Anti-lock braking system (ABS) examination
• Faulty brake lines (worn or rusted ABS cables)
• Influence of contaminants in the brake system
• Vehicle stopping distance with proper brakes vs. incident brakes
• Desk review of mechanical examinations