Maintaining the tires on your trailer is critical to ensuring safe and efficient hauling. However, with so many different things to consider, it can be difficult to know where to start. That's why we've put together this informative blog post to give you an easy-to-follow guide on how to keep your trailer tires in great shape, including when to replace them.
Experts agree that you should change your trailer tires every three to six years. Another indication that it's time to replace your trailer tire is the mileage. The lifespan for a standard trailer tire is about 5,000 to 12,000 miles. However, the time to replace your tires can vary significantly, depending on factors such as age, mileage covered, and the type of mileage.
Age of The Trailer's Tires
The age of your trailer tire plays a significant role in tire lifespan. Leaving your trailer tires unused for an extended period can deteriorate them in terms of oxidation, UV rays & other factors that causes them to degrade quickly. This is why it's best to change your trailer tires every three to six years, regardless of usage.
Mileage Covered
Apart from time, the mileage covered is another critical factor that could shorten your trailer tire’s lifespan. It's crucial to consider the number of miles the tires have traveled.
Type of Mileage
The type of mileage could also affect your trailer tire's lifespan. Unpaved and bumpy roads can put more pressure on tires, ultimately leading to premature or accelerated wear and tear. Driving on well-paved highways results in even tire wear, which prolongs the tire lifespan.
Knowing when to replace your trailer tires is crucial in ensuring your trailer's safety and longevity, but there are also ways to maintain your tires to prevent needing to replace them as much as possible. Checking the tread depth, examining tire shape, inspecting for damage, and assessing wear patterns are some of the most important things to do. Once your tread starts to wear off, or you spot any signs of damage, you'll probably need to replace your tires. Here are some ways you can be sure you are taking care of your tires properly:
Check for Proper Inflation
Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the correct PSI, which varies. Always check the PSI when the tire is cold. If your tires are underinflated or overinflated, they'll wear down much more quickly and may blow out.
Evenly Distribute Weight
How you load your trailer is crucial. Distribute the weight of your cargo as evenly as possible, to prevent uneven tire wear. If one tire is carrying too much load, it can cause your trailer to become unbalanced and harder to control on the road.
By following these simple steps, you’ll ensure that your trailer tires are in excellent condition, ready to haul, and keep you and your cargo safe on the road. Maintaining your trailer tires isn't rocket science; it's checking on them consistently and taking heed of any potential issues. Taking care of your tires and replacing them as needed is important whenever hauling with a trailer.