Why It’s So Important to Be Sure Your Semi Tires Have the Proper Air Pressure

For vehicles of all types and sizes, it is important to maintain proper air pressure in the tires. Not only is this crucial for tire maintenance, but it’s also an important part of safe vehicle operation.

As one of the best semi tire shops in Ocala, FL, we have significant experience dealing with tire issues in semi trucks. Here’s a quick overview of why it’s so important for you to keep your semi tires at the proper air pressure:

  • Tire condition: Tires that are overinflated or underinflated will wear down faster than tires that are properly inflated, which will result in them needing to be replaced earlier. Underinflated tires tend to wear out along the edges as the weight of the vehicle presses down on the tires and causes them to flatten out. Overinflated tires are more likely to wear out faster in the middle, as the levels of inflation cause bulging at the center.
  • Safety of vehicle operation: When tires wear down prematurely, they start to lose their grip on the road. Bald tires do not provide the same level of friction as tires with a good level of tread, so it becomes easier for the vehicle to slip and slide around and for drivers to lose control over their vehicles.
  • Financial savings: By keeping your tires in good condition for a longer period of time, you can save money by avoiding having to replace your tires earlier than necessary.

Getting the proper pressure

The owner’s manual or your vehicle manufacturer should be able to provide you with information about the proper air pressure level for your semi tires. It is important to make air pressure checks a part of your regular pre-trip inspections so you don’t have to worry about unsafe operation of your vehicle while you’re out on the road.

Here are a few tips for tire inflation that you should keep in mind:

  • Check the tire pressure regularly, making it a part of your regular pre-trip inspections. Make sure the vehicle and tires are cool when you check the pressure—otherwise, you may get inaccurate readings.
  • Always use a high-quality pressure gauge. Invest in a digital gauge, as it will be more accurate. Keep it in your vehicle at all times so you can check tire pressure while out on trips if needed.
  • Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended inflation pressures. Don’t inflate to the level listed on the tire sidewall—this is usually the maximum inflation level, not the recommended inflation level. There is a big difference, and maximum inflation may be unsafe and cause premature wear.
  • If you’re carrying particularly heavy loads and going on an extended highway journey, you may wish to increase your tire pressure. Get recommendations from the manufacturer before making any such decisions yourself.

Interested in learning more about getting the proper pressure for your semi tires? Contact the best semi tire shop in Ocala, FL today with any questions you have about tire air pressure for semis and we will be happy to provide you with any assistance we can. We look forward to working with you.

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