Retreads: Dispelling The Myths

Over the years, many myths have evolved regarding retreaded tires. Despite the facts, however, individuals still believe these myths and have many fears about purchasing and running retreads. Let STTC eliminate some of these concerns and clarify the reasons why so many truckers and transportation companies rely on retreads as their replacement tire of choice.

Dispelling the Myths of The Tire Retreading

Myth 1: Retreads are not safe or not as safe as new tires.

Fact: Retreads are as safe as new tires. Properly maintained retreaded tires do not cause accidents. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the majority of the tires involved in tire-related accidents are either under-inflated or bald. Ambulances, aircraft, school buses, and fire engines all use retreads.

Myth 2: The road is cluttered with rubber from retreads.

Fact: The rubber debris on the road is from all types of tires, including new tires and retreaded tires. The majority of the rubber on the road is caused by overloading, tire abuse, and under-inflation.

Myth 3: Retreads do not have quality and safety requirements.

Fact: All passenger, light pickup, and OTR tires are retreaded according to standards established by the U.S. Department of Transportation. This is why all retreads are marked with a code number on the sidewall indicating where and when the tire was retreaded. Although the U.S. Department of Transportation does not have regulations for retreaded truck tires, the quality of truck retreads has improved in recent years with the advent of computers in manufacturing and nondestructive tire testing.