What is one cause of tire fires?

One of the primary causes of tire fires is under-inflated tires. When tires are under-inflated, they do not maintain the proper shape and temperature during operation, leading to increased friction on the road surface. This excess friction generates heat, which can build up to dangerous levels. If the heat continues to rise and is not dissipated, it can cause the rubber of the tire to ignite, leading to a tire fire.

In contrast, while oil leaks, poor braking systems, and overloaded vehicles can create hazardous conditions, they are not direct causes of tire fires in the same way. Oil leaks can lead to fires but typically involve engine components rather than tires. Poor braking systems can lead to overheating of brakes, but this also does not originate from the tires. Overloaded vehicles may place excessive stress on tires, leading to blowouts or other issues, but the specific mechanism of a tire fire is more closely tied to the heat produced from under-inflation.