5 Warning Signs That it's Time to Change Your Tyres
When it comes to commercial, agricultural and plant vehicles, tyres are a critical component. Ensuring that they’re in peak condition not only keeps your operations running smoothly, it also safeguards the safety of your team and equipment.
Timely tyre replacement is essential for keeping commercial and agricultural vehicles in optimal condition. Here are five key warning signs that it’s time for a commercial tyre fitting.
Regular Tyre Inspections
1. Tread depth is below the legal limit
In the UK, the minimum tread depth for most vehicles is 1.6mm. Tread depth plays a crucial role in ensuring that tyres can grip the road or field, especially in wet or uneven conditions. For commercial, agricultural and plant tyres, tread depth impacts performance on everything from motorways to muddy fields.
Checking tread depth is simple: insert a tread gauge into the grooves or use the “20p test” (if you can't see the outer band on the coin, your tyres are above the legal limit). If the tread is below the legal limit, it’s time to book a tyre replacement to maintain safety and efficiency.
2. Visible cracks or bulges in the sidewall
The sidewall of a tyre should always be smooth and free from defects. Cracks or bulges are often signs of structural damage, which can lead to blowouts, especially under the weight of commercial or plant machinery.
Cracks are commonly caused by age, exposure to sunlight or the stress of heavy loads. If you notice any sidewall irregularities, a commercial tyre fitting is essential to avoid sudden tyre failure that could disrupt operations or cause accidents.
3. Uneven tread wear
Uneven wear is a common issue with commercial tyres, especially for vehicles carrying heavy loads or travelling long distances. Tyre wear can be caused by improper alignment, under- or over-inflation, or issues with suspension. Uneven wear not only reduces traction but also places stress on other vehicle components.
Regularly rotating tyres and ensuring proper alignment can help. However, if the wear is severe, replacing them will improve handling and prolong the life of your commercial vehicle.
4. Frequent loss of tyre pressure
For large commercial or agricultural tyres, a steady drop in pressure may signal more than just a leak. It could be a sign of deteriorating tyre structure or internal damage that isn’t always visible.
Constantly having to top up the pressure can be a costly inconvenience, as well as a safety hazard. If you’re experiencing frequent pressure drops, schedule a commercial tyre fitting to avoid the risk of sudden deflation, which can be dangerous for heavy-duty vehicles.
5. Reduced performance and handling
In agriculture, construction and commercial transport, reliable handling is essential for safety and efficiency. Poor tyre performance can lead to difficulty steering, increased braking distances and instability on uneven surfaces.
If your vehicle’s handling feels compromised or you’re noticing reduced traction, it could be due to tyre wear. Replacing worn-out tyres will not only improve performance but also minimise the risk of accidents, ensuring smoother operations.
Commercial tyre fitting in East Yorkshire
Recognising these warning signs early on can prevent costly repairs, minimise downtime, and protect both your team and equipment.
At PRC Tyre Services, we specialise in commercial tyre fitting for commercial, agricultural and plant vehicles. When it’s time for a tyre replacement, you can trust our team to deliver a high-quality service and durable tyres suited to your vehicle’s needs.
Contact us today for expert advice and professional tyre fitting services, keeping your fleet compliant and ready for the demands of any job.
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