When it comes to maintaining safety and performance during commercial truck driving, few things are as important as the tires. These rugged workhorses bear the weight of your vehicle, endure long hours on the road, and face an array of challenges along the way.
To keep your trucks rolling smoothly and safely, it’s essential to be aware of common tire problems that can arise. By staying proactive and addressing these issues promptly, you can minimize downtime, optimize fuel efficiency, and ensure a comfortable ride for both driver and cargo.
So, let’s dive into some commercial truck tire problems you should look out for.
How Long Does a Commercial Truck Tire Last?
Commercial truck tires are built to endure the rigorous demands of heavy-duty transportation. The lifespan of a commercial truck tire can vary depending on several factors.
On average, you can expect these tires to last between 230,000 and 500,000 miles, which generally works out to about 3 to 6 years. However, it’s important to note that individual results may differ due to factors such as road conditions, driving habits, tire maintenance, and the type of tire used.
What Are Some Common Tire Issues?
Tires deal with a significant amount of wear and tear while on the road, leading to various problems that can affect their performance and longevity. However, the three most common causes of premature failure in commercial truck tires are:
- Tire Inflation
- Mismatched Tires
- Uneven Tire Tread Wear
Let’s delve a little deeper into each of these concerns.
Tire Inflation
Improper tire inflation is the leading cause of tire failure. The wrong tire pressure can result in a range of issues that adversely affect tire performance and overall vehicle handling.
When a tire is overinflated, it becomes excessively rigid, leading to a smaller contact patch with the road. This reduces traction and can result in a harsh and uncomfortable ride for the driver. Over-inflation also causes the tire’s center tread to wear down more quickly.
On the other hand, under-inflated tires are more prone to flexing and generating heat, which can lead to internal damage and premature wear. Plus, low tire pressure reduces fuel efficiency and increases the risk of blowouts.
Keep in mind, tires naturally lose around 2% of their air per month. So you should regularly check and maintain proper tire pressure.
We recommend checking tire pressure at least once a week or investing in tire pressure monitoring tech. Remember, proper tire inflation can significantly extend the lifespan of your commercial truck tires.
Mismatch Tires
Having mismatched tires in dual positions, especially on trailers, can lead to significant problems for commercial trucks. It is crucial to avoid using tires that don’t match each other in these positions, as it can result in increased premature wear and higher maintenance costs.
All you need to do is compare tread depth to find mismatches. And remember, even slight differences can cause issues. This typically happens because you have tires from different manufacturers or you’re putting together old and new tires.
Tire mismatch may not be a significant problem for your personal vehicle, but it can have expensive consequences for commercial vehicles that regularly haul heavy loads over long distances.
Uneven Tire Tread Wear
Uneven tread wear could be pointing to some underlying mechanical issue. It could be a misalignment, underinflation, overinflation, or overdue for maintenance.
When the tire tread wears unevenly, the risk of a blowout increases significantly. Therefore, you need to always examine the tread wear patterns during pre-trip inspections. Taking just a few minutes to use a tread gauge and ensure even wear can help detect and address potential problems before they become major headaches down the road.
Don’t overlook the importance of regular tire maintenance and inspections to ensure safe and efficient operations.
Interested in a commercial truck driving job? Contact Drive M & W today.
