As the temperature starts to drop and winter weather looms on the horizon, it’s important to make sure that your semi truck tires are ready for the challenges of the season. Below are a few tips on how to best prepare your tires for winter.
1. Check Your Tire Pressure
The first step is to check your tire pressure. In cold weather, tire pressure can drop about 1 PSI (pounds per square inch) for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit. That might not seem like much, but even a small drop in pressure can have a big impact on how your tires perform in winter weather conditions.
2. Inspect Your Tires for Damage
It’s also important to take the time to inspect your tires for any damage that might have occurred over the course of the year. Look for cracks, bulges, or bald spots—any of which could spell trouble when winter weather hits. If you’re not sure what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to take your truck into a professional tire center for an inspection.
3. Consider Winter Tire Options
Depending on where you live and how much winter weather you typically experience, you might want to consider investing in winter tires specifically designed for use in cold weather and snowy conditions. Winter tires are made from a different type of rubber compound that helps them stay flexible in cold temperatures, which provides better traction on icy roads.
As winter approaches, it’s important to take steps to ensure that your semi truck tires are ready for the cold weather and rain ahead. By checking your tire pressure, inspecting your tires for damage, and considering investing in winter tires, you can help keep yourself—and others—safe on the road this season.