How to avoid a flat truck tyre?

The impact of incorrect tyre pressure 

In the UK, 86% ⁽¹⁾ of vehicles involved in accidents have incorrect tyre pressure.

• Underinflated tyres create excessive friction, leading to overheating, reduced road contact (by up to 50% ⁽²⁾), lower mileage and higher fuel consumption.
• Overinflated tyres become too rigid ⁽³⁾, increasing risk of damage and reducing overall lifespan.

Regular checks prevent truck flat tyres 

Routine tyre pressure checks by drivers, service providers or automated systems are essential. 

To check if a tire is flat or losing pressure, drivers should perform a few essential checks daily:

Get smart and say goodbye to truck flat tyres

Proactive smart monitoring solutions like MICHELIN’s Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), part of Michelin Connected Fleet, provides real-time alerts for under- or overinflation, enhancing safety, optimising costs and preventing flat truck tyres.

Meanwhile, MICHELIN’s MyTechXpert smartphone app offers tailored recommendations and step by step inflation guidance for optimal tyre performance ⁽⁴⁾. 

Look for cracks and wear

Pay extra attention to older tyres

Tyres over 10 years old require frequent checks. Avoid using ageing tyres on the steering axle, as a front-tyre blowout is far more dangerous than a rear-tyre failure. 

Store truck tyres properly 

Proper tyre storage is just as important as regular inspections. It's recommended storing spare tyres:

• In well-ventilated areas
• Away from direct sunlight
• Far from chemicals, metal or wood objects
• Away from heat sources and electric motors 

For short term storage (up to 4 weeks) tyres can be stacked horizontally, one on top of the other, on wooden pallets. The height of the stack should not exceed 1.2 metres. After 4 weeks, the tyres should be reversed in the stack. When fitted on rims, tyres should be stored inflated in an upright position or in a single layer on shelf racks.

For long term storage, tyres should be stored upright in a single layer on shelf racks with at least 10 cm clearance above the floor. To avoid deformation, it is advisable to rotate (reverse the order of the tyres in the stack) them once a month.

Watch for warning signs 

Routine inspections  help prevent a flat truck tyre.

Look for:

• Abnormal wear 
• Deformations
• Rim flange deterioration
• Leaky valves 
• Unusual vehicle handling
• Signs of contamination – such as soft, sticky rubber or closing tread grooves  

If any warning signs appear, consult a tyre specialist to assess and repair or replace the tyre as needed. 

Choose the right tyres for the job

Trucks operate in varied environments, from motorways to construction sites.
Rugged tyres are great for construction sites, while low rolling resistance tyres improve fuel efficiency for long-haul transport. Fleet managers should match tyres to their specific use cases. 

Choosing the right truck tyres reduces damage and blowout risks.

Drive smart and reduce wear

Eco-driving techniques extend tyre life. Responsible driving style that avoids sudden acceleration, harsh braking, and sharp turns minimises stress and curb impact ౼ significantly reduce wear and the chances of a flat truck tyre.