As a truck driver, you must have pondered over questions like how long should tires last on a truck or when to replace truck tires and such.

Well, you are on the right page. This article delves into how long should truck tires last, factors that determine how long do truck tires last, how do you know when to replace truck tires.

Let’s get started!

How long should truck tires last?

While most of us are concerned about “how long should tires last on a truck”, there’s no definite answer to it. However, truck drivers can maximize their investment and avoid driving on worn-out tires. It is found that most drivers usually go at an average of 12000-15000 miles per year! That said, an average all-season good quality tire would last between 3 and 5 years. This depends on maintenance, driving style, road conditions, and more.

Factors that determine how long do truck tires last

Several parameters, including the terrain conditions, driving speed and style, weather, and such, play a significant role in deciding how long tires should last. Let’s look at some of the key factors.

Worn Out Vs Aged

It is a known fact that more driven tires become worn-out and offer less traction than normal tires, particularly in adverse conditions. Drivers are aware that worn tires are not suitable for service and must be replaced.

In contrast to driven tires which suffer from wear and tear, those tires which are hardly used such as those in recreational vehicles, or collectible cars, suffer from aging. While they offer good traction due to minimal use, their structural integrity is adversely impacted as the tires must be driven for the chemicals in their rubber to stay effective.

Improper Driving Style and Habits

Poor driving habits such as rash driving, sudden braking, or excess acceleration can all result in increased strain on the tires, causing them to get worn out rapidly. Drivers can resort to a calm and stable mode of driving to ensure their longevity.

Neglected maintenance

Like any other items that we use, tires too require regular maintenance. It is imperative to check them for air pressure levels, damages, etc., and keep them aligned and rotated.

Weather Conditions

When tires are driven in extreme weather conditions like icy cold or precipitation, they need to work harder to maintain traction. It makes sense that truck drivers purchase specially designed tires for specific weather conditions that offer better control and added safety.

Hazards on the roads

Curbs, potholes, bumps, and other roadblocks also impact the tire wear by affecting its suspension and causing misalignment. In case your daily driving challenges include these, make sure to check suspension and alignment on a scheduled basis.

How do I know when to replace truck tires?

Check out the below pointers to understand when to replace truck tires.

Reduced tread depth

Low tread indicates that your tires need to be replaced. Drivers can spot the region of the tire by looking at it. Depending on the part of the tire that’s wearing out, you need to check for other problems.

Misalignment of tires could be the issue when there’s excess inner or outer shoulder wear. Wearing out at the edges might signal tires are under-inflated or they need to be rotated. Cupped wear may indicate suspension issues while the same at the center may indicate the tires are over-inflated.

Rough Drive

In case you feel vibrations or excessive levels of noise, it might be that the tires are not properly balanced, or have a structural issue. These could cause safety concerns, so it is advisable to get your tires inspected by a qualified professional.

How can I improve the life of tires?

Tire maintenance and driving habits greatly enhance and extend tires' life. Follow regular maintenance practices for your tires, like ensuring they are free from damage, hold the right pressure, and are not reduced in the tread. Have your tires inspected thoroughly by a qualified professional at regular intervals and get them balanced and aligned.

From a driving standpoint, ensure that you adhere to safe practices by avoiding rash driving, sudden braking, and such actions, which can result in rapid wearing out of your tires. Avoid hassles on the road like potholes, curbs, or broken pavements as much as possible.

Final thoughts

Use the guidelines explained in the article to understand how long should tires last on a truck or when to replace truck tires.

In case you have any queries or need assistance with truck tires, feel free to reach out to us here.