Tire maintenance tips that truck drivers have to learn

Sep 06, 2023

The main function of tires is to support the vehicle, cushion external impacts, maintain contact with the road, and ensure the vehicle's performance. Due to its unique characteristics, tires not only need to have high load-carrying, traction, and cushioning capabilities, but also high wear resistance, resistance to bending and deformation, as well as low rolling resistance and heat generation.

 

Normally good tire care is the key to extend the life of tires, let's talk about tire care today.                                  

         

1. Promptly clean foreign objects on the tires.

The tire is the part of the vehicle that comes into direct contact with the ground. It is common for foreign objects like stones or screws to become attached to the tire, which can cause damage to the tire rubber and steel wire. This can result in a shorter lifespan for the tire or even a flat tire. To prevent unnecessary damage to your tires, it is important to promptly remove any foreign objects that become attached to them.

 

 2. Regularly check the tires and let them cool naturally when the temperature is too high.

Since the tires are constantly in contact with the ground during high-speed vehicle operation, various road conditions are directly transmitted to the tires. Therefore, we must constantly check the tire pressure and temperature changes during the journey. During driving, the tires generate high temperatures due to friction and resistance, especially in summer. When we notice that the tire temperature is high, it is important not to forcefully cool them by pouring cold water. The best approach is to choose a shaded area and let the tires naturally reduce their temperature and pressure.



3. Tire rotation extends the lifespan of tires.

Due to the varying roles and loads on different axles, the wear on each tire differs to some extent. Therefore, it is necessary to perform tire rotation during tire usage. The vehicle manufacturer provides a detailed reference regarding the mileage for tire rotation and how to swap the tires. We should follow the standards they provide as a guide.

 

4. Brake properly and replace excessively worn tires in a timely manner.

While driving, it is important to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to avoid unnecessary braking, which can effectively reduce tire wear. Moreover, for safety reasons, it is essential to pay attention to the tread depth of the tires. Tires that are close to being worn out have reduced traction on wet and slippery roads, and their thinner sidewalls make them more prone to blowouts. It is recommended to replace them promptly.