As a commercial truck driver, you know how important it is to have good tires on your vehicle. And if you use a trailer, the same goes for it. Having a set of tires in good condition not only reduces the risk for accidents or damage to your truck or trailer, it also increases your fuel economy and makes for a better ride overall. Before you head out with your truck or trailer, check for these signs that could indicate you need new tires.
Sidewall
Take a look at the sidewall of each tire. Cracks or bulges are a sure sign that your truck or trailer needs a new set of tires. These will weaken the tire, compromising its integrity and drastically increasing your chances of experiencing a blowout while driving.
Tread
The tread on your tires is another thing to check. Over time, the tread depth will decrease and your tires won’t be able to grip the road as well. When the tread gets too low, it’s time to replace the tires. Newer tires are often equipped with tread wear indicator bars to let you know when it’s time to replace. Another common way is to do the penny test, where you stick a penny into the tread. If you can see Lincoln’s head, it may be time to replace the tires.
Uneven Wear
Tires that show signs of uneven wear may also need replacing. When tires wear unevenly – usually as a result of not being rotated or your truck being out of alignment – they have a shorter lifespan and will need to be replaced sooner. To avoid this, make sure your tires are properly inflated and rotated regularly, and ensure that your vehicle is in alignment.
Sounds & Vibrations
If you notice excessive vibration while driving, this could be another indicator that you need new tires. Tires that are damaged can sometimes cause vibration or strange sounds while you’re driving. If you’re experiencing either of these, you need to check your tires and see if it’s time to replace them.