Tires account for 40% of roadside service calls. Learn proper inspection, pressure management, and replacement timing to prevent blowouts and maximize tire life.
Your trailer rides on eight tires that carry tens of thousands of pounds mile after mile. A single blowout can cost you a load, damage cargo, or cause an accident. Yet tire failures are almost entirely preventable with proper maintenance.
This guide covers everything you need to know about commercial trailer tire care—from daily pressure checks to reading wear patterns that signal suspension problems. Whether you own your equipment or lease from CRUMS, these practices protect your investment and your safety.
The #1 factor in tire longevity
Underinflation is a Silent Killer
A tire running 20% under specification loses 30% of its life expectancy. The tire flexes more, generates heat, and weakens the internal structure—often without visible signs until it's too late.
What your tires are telling you
What to check every trip
Most semi-trailer tires require 95-110 PSI when cold, though the exact specification is printed on the tire sidewall. Always check pressure before driving when tires are cold (driven less than 1 mile). Underinflation by 20% can reduce tire life by 30%.
FMCSA regulations require a minimum of 2/32" tread depth for trailer tires in any major groove. However, most experts recommend replacing trailer tires at 4/32" for safety, especially for highway driving. Steer tires on the truck require 4/32" minimum by law.
Check tire pressure before every trip (daily if in regular use) and whenever temperature changes significantly. A 10°F temperature change causes roughly 1 PSI change in tire pressure. Weekly calibrated gauge checks are essential for accuracy.
Semi-trailer tires typically last 3-5 years or 50,000-100,000 miles depending on load weights, road conditions, and maintenance. Age matters too—tires older than 6 years should be inspected carefully or replaced, regardless of tread depth.
The leading causes of trailer tire blowouts are: underinflation (40% of failures), overloading (25%), road hazard damage (20%), and age/dry rot (15%). Regular pressure checks and pre-trip inspections prevent most blowouts.
CRUMS Leasing trailers come with properly maintained tires and regular inspections. Focus on driving—we handle the upkeep.
Complete maintenance schedule guide for dry van and flatbed trailers. Daily, weekly, monthly, and annual checklists.
Quick, visual pre-trip inspection checklist to avoid breakdowns and DOT violations.
Tire pressure, weight distribution, and idle-time tips saving carriers money while promoting CRUMS' well-maintained fleet.