Inspect Tires Before Long-Haul Trips this Summer

Inflationary concerns, supply chain issues, and continued labor shortages could continue to weigh heavily on many fleets this year. Never before has it been as important to have properly inspected tires that last longer and reduce wear on vehicles. Before your drivers take to the road, ensure they are handling tire inspections thoroughly to minimize any gaps in functionality, reducing the risk of needing to replace tires early. In some cases, inspections can help to boost fuel efficiency, too. Timely retreads done by experienced tire specialists can save money.   

Proactive Tire Maintenance Is Critical to Fuel Economy

One of the most important tools for ensuring good fuel economy and reliability is to ensure drivers are proactive about tire maintenance. Specifically, they need to pay close attention to tire inflation pressure (PSI) as it directly impacts fuel mileage and tire wear.

Changes in air temperatures on long-hauls, such as from intense heat in Florida and Texas to the cooler temperatures still present in the Northwest, could create gaps in efficiency. Air molecules in the tire adjust to the temperature, causing changes in PSI noticeable enough to impact fuel economy. The problem is that drivers will not notice the changes in PSI while on these long routes. That’s why it is important for them to know the symptoms of under-inflation. Those include:

• TPMS light on the dashboard turns on, indicating a significant drop in air pressure
• Steering and handling become more difficult 
• It takes longer to stop the vehicle than it did 
• Noticeable changes in vibrations on roadways 
• A flapping noise that comes from the tires (generally indicating a significant risk of under-inflation)

Any change in driving quality could indicate under-inflation of tires. On long-hauls, drivers should take the time to visually inspect tires throughout the route whenever they notice these types of changes, or seek out immediate help from a trusted commercial tire service. 

Proper Inspection Is Critical But Often Overlooked

Before taking to the roadways, drivers need to invest in a full inspection of the tires. At the start of the trip, this typically should include more than the “tire kick” to determine the condition of the tire. Rather, a pre-trip inspection should include a gauge placed on every tire. Some drivers may wait until they hear the “thump” of an underinflated tire, yet that often means the need to purchase new tires or get repairs. 

Drivers need to ensure their TPMS is regularly monitored as this can provide a faster and more efficient way to get help for underinflated pressures. There are notable risks to not adjusting underinflated tires soon enough, including:

• Reduced tread life 
• Substantial reduction in fuel economy 
• Increased friction that can lead to a blowout 

Get the Help You Need, Fast, and Keep Your Tires Running Smoothly 

In situations where an underinflated tire is noticeable, getting fast help matters. STTC can help with road emergencies when they occur. If there is a need for a tire replacement, our retreads can be a viable, affordable option to get you back on the road. 

To get any of the help you need, call now at 610-954-8473 or contact us online when you need tire services and trailer maintenance.