When Do Your Truck Tires Need to be Replaced?

It was an alleged blowout of the right-hand steer tire and within a twinkle of an eye, eight people were killed. 

The truck that led to this heart wrenching tragedy was heading eastbound on I-40 on that fateful day and the blowout caused it to veer across the highway, down through the median and collide head-on with a westbound Greyhound bus carrying 49 passengers. 

What could have caused it? 

If you’ve ever used a pencil eraser, you would agree that as important as they are, it is amazing that they seem to wear down a little bit every time you need them. 

Just like our dear pencil erasers, the more you use your truck tires, the more they wear down.  

We all know that your tires are the only part of your truck touching the road, they're the ones making sure you're not slipping and sliding when you take that unexpected turn or hit the brakes. So, when those treads start looking a bit tired themselves, it's like your tires are giving you a nudge, saying, "Hey, buddy, I've served you well, but it's time for a refresh." This is because driving with damaged or worn-out tires can lead to accidents, costly repairs, fines and delays in your delivery schedule.  

Thus, pre-trip inspections are a crucial part of any truck driver's routine, as they help identify potential issues before you hit the road. Tires should be thoroughly inspected for tread depth, damage, and leaks. 

Many states legally mandate a minimum tire tread depth of 3/32 of an inch for commercial trucks. To easily check your tire tread, use the penny trick – insert a penny with Lincoln's head facing down; if the tread is at or above his head, it's time for replacement. Alternatively, have them inspected at SJS Trucks and Diesel Repairs. 

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), steer tires should have a minimum tread depth of 4/32-inch, while other commercial vehicle tires should have at least 2/32-inch. Regularly inspect for tire issues like sidewall damage, irregular wear, or cuts during your pre-trip checks. Address any problems promptly to prevent potential blowouts. Keep an eye out for slow leaks, as they can impact fuel efficiency and tire wear over time. If you suspect a leak, seek professional inspection and repair.  

So here is another common question: When do your truck tires need to be replaced? 

Typically, the timing for tire replacement is influenced by two main factors: wear and age. The speed at which tire wear occurs depends on various factors, including the vehicle type, tire type, local climate, driving habits, maintenance, and more. Immediate replacement is necessary if your tires exhibit cracks or develop bubbles. The age of commercial vehicle tires is a topic of ongoing debate, with some advocating for replacement solely based on age, while others argue that tires in good condition can continue in use.  

In general, prioritize regular tire maintenance to ensure they remain undamaged. 

Hi-Point Truck Sales for all your Trucking Needs!

Whether you are looking to upgrade your fleet or simply getting your own truck, you can rely on Hi-Point Truck Sales. We would love to assist you in buying your next truck and finding the best financial option for you. Plus, we have a 2020 Freightliner Cascadia with brand new American tires for just $80,000. 

Give us a call on 866-766-8484 or contact us via www.hipointtrucksales.com.