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Tire Inspections: How to Examine Tires and Prevent Problems

Recognizing a bald tire or understanding a tire pressure warning light is one thing, but conducting a thorough tire inspection requires more attention to detail.

Fleet managers have various reasons to perform regular tire inspections—complying with federal and state regulations, enhancing fuel efficiency, and prioritizing driver safety. Despite these efforts, faulty tires remain among the most common violations found by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This inconsistency suggests that while many fleets inspect their tires, the inspections may not always be as thorough as needed.

To help fleets maintain optimal tire health, here’s what to focus on during tire inspections:

Key Areas to Examine During Tire Inspections

Tire Pressure: Automakers provide recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) levels for tires to ensure maximum fuel efficiency, extended tire life, and smooth ride quality. Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial, as both underinflation and overinflation can cause premature wear.

Tread Depth Compliance: Federal law mandates tread depths of 4/32" for steering tires and 2/32" for non-steering tires. Regular checks ensure compliance with these standards and prevent accidents caused by insufficient tire traction.

Even Wear: Uneven wear can signal issues like misalignment, improper inflation, or worn suspension components. Inspect tires for consistent wear patterns to avoid potential failures.

Foreign Objects: Regularly check for embedded debris, such as nails or screws, which could lead to tire damage or punctures.

Rubber Condition: Inspect for signs of cuts, bubbles, or other damage that might indicate it’s time for a tire replacement.

1. Tire Pressure

Most modern vehicles are equipped with Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) that alert drivers when tire pressure is too low. However, these systems shouldn’t replace regular tire pressure checks, as they don’t always account for heavy loads or gradual deflation.

For accurate readings, tire pressure should be measured after the vehicle has been parked for three hours or more. This ensures the tires are "cold," and readings are not affected by the heat generated from driving. Fleet managers should aim to measure tire pressure at least once a month, using reliable tire pressure gauges for accuracy.

2. Tread Depth

Tire treads play a vital role in vehicle safety, providing necessary traction and helping prevent hydroplaning during wet conditions. Federal regulations require minimum tread depths of 4/32" for steering tires and 2/32" for other tires. Regular monthly checks, or more frequent inspections for long-distance fleets, can help prevent accidents caused by worn tires.

Using a tread depth gauge or the penny test, fleet personnel should measure tread depth at multiple points on each tire to ensure no section falls below the minimum standard.

3. Uneven Wear

Tires should wear evenly across the tread. If you notice more wear in certain areas, it could indicate misalignment or suspension issues. Checking for uneven wear helps avoid premature tire failure, reducing fleet expenses.

4. Foreign Objects

Tires are constantly exposed to debris, whether on city streets or dirt roads. While small rocks can often be brushed away, larger objects like nails or screws require immediate attention to prevent further damage. Regular inspections help fleet managers identify and address these issues before they lead to tire failure.

Mileage and Tire Age

Tracking the age and mileage of your tires is another key aspect of fleet safety. Even if a tire looks fine, age alone can compromise its integrity. Regularly monitoring tire age and mileage allows for timely replacements, ensuring your fleet stays safe on the road.

Tire Management Solutions

Tire management software helps fleets stay on top of tire maintenance, tracking tire age, mileage, and overall condition. Integrated with fleet maintenance systems, these tools allow managers to oversee tire-related tasks from a centralized platform, optimizing both micro and macro aspects of fleet management.

At Asset Transport, we understand the importance of keeping your fleet in top condition. Our tire management solutions help you ensure your tires are always up to standard, maximizing safety and efficiency. Reach out to us today to learn how we can partner with you to keep your fleet on the road and operating at its best.