Utah Tractor-Trailer Tire Replacement & Repair: Winter Maintenance for Maximum Safety and Performance

As winter sets in across Utah, trucking companies and professional drivers face a unique set of challenges. Ensuring your tractor-trailer’s tires are in top condition is extremely important with roads marked by ice, snowstorms, and freezing temperatures. Regular tire replacement and tire repair keep your tractor-trailer running smoothly and ensure the safety of drivers, cargo, and others on the road.

Why Winter Tire Maintenance Is Vita for Tractor-Trailers

Failing to replace or repair worn tires or using the wrong type of tires can lead to dangerous driving situations. Tire blowouts, reduced grip on icy roads, and increased stopping distances are just a few risks that improper tire maintenance can pose. Plus, damaged or underinflated tires are more prone to premature wear and can lead to costly repairs down the road.

Common Winter Tire Issues for Tractor-Trailers in Utah

 

  1. Reduced Traction on Snow and Ice:
    Cold temperatures and wet conditions can cause tractor-trailer tires to lose their grip on the road. As the temperature drops, tire rubber becomes less flexible, reducing traction. This can lead to increased risk of accidents or getting stuck in snow or slush.
  2. Underinflated Tires:
    In lower temperatures, air contracts, which can cause tires to lose pressure. Underinflated tires are more likely to wear unevenly, overheat, and suffer from premature damage.
  3. Tire Wear and Tear:
    Salt and debris from winter road conditions can cause faster wear on tires. Additionally, the rough terrain and cold temperatures can exacerbate existing wear, leading to the need for more frequent tire replacements.
  4. Cracking and Dry Rot:
    Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause tires to crack or dry out. This damage can compromise the structural integrity of your tires.
  5. Bridging and Hydroplaning:
    Snow and ice melt can create puddles of water on the road.  With worn-out or improper tires, the integrity of your tractor-trailer’s traction is more at risk of hydroplaning. 

Tips for Tractor-Trailer Tire Maintenance During Winter

  • Check Tire Tread Depth
  • Regularly Inspect Tire Pressure
  • Replace Worn or Damaged Tires
  • Consider Winter Tires
  • Rotate Your Tires
  • Balance and Align Your Tires
  • Clean Tires from Salt and Debris

Why Use a Professional Service?

Maintenance shops that specialize in heavy-duty trucks, like tractor-trailers, have the right tools and expertise to address tire balancing, patching, and alignment. Additionally, these professionals can help you choose the right tires for the winter season, whether you need replacements or specialized winter tires.

Need Winter Maintenance in Utah?

Mighty Fleet Services helps fleets operate safely, run efficiently, remain on the road, and stay out of the shop in the northern Utah area!