One of the most common causes of tire cupping on a Jeep Wrangler is incorrect wheel alignment. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Hitting a pothole or curb
- Driving over rough terrain
- Worn suspension components
- Incorrect tire pressure
- Improperly installed lift kit
- Over-tightened lug nuts
- Damaged wheel bearings
2. Worn Ball Joints
Worn ball joints can also cause tire cupping, as they allow the wheel to move out of alignment. This can be caused by:
- Normal wear and tear
- Off-road use
- Overloading the vehicle
- Improperly installed lift kit
3. Damaged Control Arms
Damaged control arms can also cause tire cupping. Control arms are responsible for connecting the wheels to the chassis. If they are damaged, they can allow the wheel to move out of alignment. This can be caused by:
- Off-road use
- Overloading the vehicle
4. Broken Sway Bar Links
Broken sway bar links can also cause tire cupping. Sway bar links help to keep the vehicle from rolling over. If they are broken, they can allow the wheel to move out of alignment. This can be caused by:
- Off-road use
- Overloading the vehicle
5. Failed Shocks or Struts
Failed shocks or struts can also cause tire cupping. Shocks and struts help to absorb the impact of bumps in the road. If they are failed, they can allow the wheel to bounce up and down, which can cause tire cupping. This can be caused by:
- Normal wear and tear
- Off-road use
- Overloading the vehicle
6. Loose or Missing Lug Nuts
Loose or missing lug nuts can also cause tire cupping. This can be caused by:
- Improperly installed tires
- Over-tightened lug nuts
- Damaged lug nuts
- Worn lug nut threads
7. Improper Tire Inflation Pressure
Incorrect tire pressure can cause cupping because it changes the tire's contact patch with the ground. This can lead to uneven wear, resulting in cupping. Always maintain proper tire pressure according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
