When it comes to truck maintenance, tires usually aren't the first thing on your mind. After all, they appear to be fairly unscathed by anything thrown their way; even earthquakes aren’t enough to knock them off their perch. But while the tires are the unassuming frontmen of the truck, they play a crucial role in keeping the driver safe on the road.A truck tire is essentially a giant rubber ring that connects your vehicle to the ground. It is responsible for maintaining the correct air pressure inside the cabin, preventing the vehicle from shifting when travelling at high speeds, and preventing your wheels from sinking into the road when going off-road. And just like humans, tires can wear out over time, needing replacement. When your tires are getting old and start to go south, there are a few things you should know to stay safe on the road until they are replaced. Keep reading for some helpful advice on how to keep your tires in good shape...

Change your tires regularly

One of the best ways to avoid flat tires is to make sure you change your tires on time. This is especially important for drivers who regularly travel long distances and drive in bad weather conditions. When your tires are worn out, they can’t handle the stress and pressure of driving in adverse conditions as well as newer models, increasing your risk of getting a flat tire.In addition to protecting you from flats, regularly changing your tires is also a great way to extend their lifespan. According to the American Tire Dealer’s Association (ATD), driving on worn-out tires can reduce their life by as much as 30%. That’s why it’s so important to make sure you are rotating your tires regularly so they don’t become too worn out too soon.

Lubricate your tires

This may seem obvious, but it’s important to remember to lubricate your tires on a regular basis. It’s recommended that you check the inside of your tires before every trip to make sure they are properly lubricated. Doing so will help reduce the risk of getting a flat tire by up to 30%, and can extend the life of your tires by up to 50%.If you’re unsure how to properly lubricate your tires, there are a number of products designed to do so. From oil to gel, there are a wide variety of options available to help keep your tires moving freely.

Don’t drive on tires with low pressure

When you get your next set of tires, it’s important to make sure the pressure is correct. The recommended air pressure for your tires will change depending on a number of factors, including the type of vehicle you drive and your climate. When in doubt, always err on the side of caution and make sure you are driving with the recommended pressure. One of the easiest ways to check the air pressure in your tires is to use a tire pressure gauge.If you notice that one or more of your tires are under-inflated, you should immediately get them fixed. Driving on under-inflated tires can increase your risk of getting a flat tire by as much as 40%, and can also lead to increased wear and tear on your tires.

Take your time when changing a tire

When you are travelling, it may be tempting to rush to change a tire in the hopes that it will avoid a potentially dangerous situation. However, the best way to avoid a dangerous situation is to avoid it in the first place.Before you change a tire, make sure to inspect the road and surrounding area to make sure it is safe to change a tire. If it is not, you should wait until another time when it is safe to do so.When changing a tire, it is also incredibly important to slow down and use proper tire repair techniques. You never know exactly how fast your truck is moving, so it is important to take your time and drive at a slow, steady pace. Driving too quickly when changing a tire can cause serious damage to your wheels, making them weaker and more likely to damage your rim.

Conclusion

Tires are an often overlooked part of maintaining your vehicle, but they play a crucial role in keeping you safe on the road. When your tires are worn out, they increase your risk of getting a flat tire, which can be a dangerous situation if you’re travelling at high speeds. To stay safe on the road, it’s important to make sure your tires are in good condition. This means regularly checking the air pressure in your tires, taking your time when changing a tire, and making sure they are properly lubricated.