How Seasonal Changes Affect Commercial Tire Performance
Commercial tire performance can change with the seasons. Temperature fluctuations, varying road conditions and weather patterns throughout the year can impact tire performance, wear and overall safety.
Understanding how those seasonal shifts affect tire health can help you keep their vehicles safe and efficient in all conditions. Preparing for each season can help you maximize tire lifespan, reduce maintenance costs and prevent accidents or breakdowns on the road.
How Extreme Heat Affects Commercial Tire Performance
Extreme heat presents a challenge for commercial tires. As temperatures soar, the air inside your tires expands, which can lead to overinflation. High ambient temperatures combined with heat from the road surface can have lasting effects on tire integrity. Overheated tires increase the risk of blowouts, uneven tread wear and service life reduction.
Extreme heat also presents the following hazards:
- Overheated tires are more susceptible to blowouts as the interior pressure may exceed manufacturer specifications.
- Increased road temperatures can soften the rubber compounds in tires, making them more prone to wear and reducing traction.
- Accelerated tire wear can lead to more frequent commercial tire replacement.
- Excessive heat can cause tire failures, particularly when hauling heavy loads over long distances.
How Winter Weather Affects Commercial Tires
Cold temperatures can contract the air inside tires, resulting in underinflation. Driving in snow, ice and freezing rain can exacerbate those issues as they reduce tire traction and increase the potential for tire damage. Proper tire care is essential to maintain driver safety and fleet performance when navigating hazardous road conditions.
You may also face the following tire issues when driving in cold weather:
- Underinflated tires lose traction, making it more difficult to safely stop, turn and control your vehicle on slippery roads.
- Rubber can stiffen in low temperatures, which affects a tire’s ability to grip the road. It can also increase the likelihood of tire cracks and accelerated wear.
- Snow and ice are especially hazardous if you’re driving on tires with insufficient tread depth.
- Commercial vehicles hauling heavy loads face a higher risk of tire damage from icy surfaces, potholes
,and other winter hazards.
Seasonal Temperature Fluctuations and Tire Inflation
Temperature fluctuations between day and night and seasons can cause tires to lose or gain air pressure. That directly impacts tire performance, safety, vehicle stability and fuel efficiency. It’s essential to monitor tire inflation during periods of rapid temperature change, to avoid the risks of overinflation or underinflation.
The Hidden Hazards of Spring and Fall Road Conditions
While spring and fall are typically milder seasons, they come with their own hidden hazards that can affect tire performance. Stay vigilant for changes in road conditions during these transitional periods to prevent tire damage or accidents.
Wet roads increase the likelihood of hydroplaning. Potholes caused by winter thawing can lead to punctures and structural weaknesses. Fall leaves and spring runoff can obscure potential road hazards.
Preparing Your Fleet for Seasonal Tire Changes
By preparing for the different demands of each season, you can minimize the risk of tire failures, reduce maintenance costs and keep your vehicles operating efficiently.
Here are some tips to consider:
- Check tire pressure regularly and adjust for seasonal temperature fluctuations.
- Rotate tires to ensure even wear and address potential issues before they become major problems.
- Switch to the appropriate seasonal tires based on weather conditions to optimize tire performance and safety.
- Practice safe driving habits when transitioning into harsher weather conditions or dealing with road hazards.
Commercial Tires from Bauer Built
Browse our selection of commercial tires to optimize your fleet efficiency throughout the year. Use our tire selector to find the right tires by size and application.e of our locations, we can get you back on the road in less than two hours. Contact us to learn more.
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