For fleet owners and independent truckers, saving money on maintenance is always a priority. When it comes to truck tires, opting for used ones (also known as part-worn tyres) might seem like a budget-friendly move but the hidden costs and risks might surprise you.
In this blog, Amigo Tyres — trusted for truck wheel alignment in Rocklea — decided to share 10 reasons why avoiding used tires for Australian trucks makes sense, and why investing in new tires is the smarter long-term decision.
Why don’t part-worn tyres make sense?
Here’s why experienced truckers of Australia rarely invest in used truck tyres:
Unknown Tire History
Part-worn truck tires often come with a mystery. You don’t know how many miles they’ve already been through, what roads they’ve traveled, or how they were stored. A truck tire that’s been exposed to rough terrain or poor conditions could be a ticking time bomb.
Hidden Internal Damage
Even if a worn out truck tire looks good on the outside, it might have internal damage like sidewall separations, belt shifts, or puncture repairs. These issues can lead to blowouts and unexpected failures, especially when the truck is fully loaded.
Shorter Lifespan
Used tires simply don’t last as long as most think. While a new tire can give you tens of thousands of kilometers of reliable service, a used one may give out much sooner, leading to frequent replacements and added downtime.
Poor Fuel Efficiency
Old or unevenly worn tires reduce fuel efficiency. Since truckers often travel long distances, even a small drop in mileage can lead to significant fuel costs. New truck tires with proper tread depth and uniformity ensure smoother rides and better fuel economy.
Compromised Traction and Safety
Traction is everything when you're hauling loads through highways, city streets, or rainy roads. Used tires typically have worn-out treads that compromise grip, increasing the risk of skidding, longer braking distances, and even accidents.
May Not Meet Legal Standards
Many countries and states have strict regulations regarding tread depth and tire condition for commercial vehicles. Installing used tires that don’t meet these requirements could lead to hefty fines or your truck being taken off the road.
Unlike new truck tires that come with manufacturer warranties and after-sales support, used tires usually don’t offer any guarantees. If a used tire fails, you bear the full cost—not just of replacement, but also potential damage or delays caused by the failure.
Compatibility Issues
Truck tires vary based on load capacity, speed ratings, and vehicle type. A used tire may not match your truck's requirements precisely. Mismatched tires can affect handling, cause uneven wear, and put extra strain on your suspension.
False Economy
The initial savings of buying worn out truck tires are often wiped out by their shorter life, frequent replacements, and increased risk of breakdowns. In the long run, new truck tires turn out to be more economical due to their durability and efficiency.
Bad for Brand Reputation
For trucking companies, reliability matters. Clients depend on timely deliveries and safe transit. Using substandard used tires increases the risk of delays, breakdowns, and even accidents—damaging your reputation and potentially losing business.
Avoid Used Truck Tires in Australia
While the idea of saving money on used truck tires might sound appealing, the risks far outweigh the benefits. Choosing new, high-quality truck tires ensures peace of mind, better mileage, and fewer headaches down the road.
Looking for professional truck tire fitting and inspection services? Always go for a trusted tire shop near you to ensure quality and safety every mile of the journey. Visit our tyre shop in Rocklea for best discounts on new truck tyres.
For those who don’t know, Amigo Tyres is a Rocklea-based truck tyre shop that supports truckers and businesses with truck tyre replacement, repair, cleaning, and mobile services. We also have a washing station now!
Still got any queries to ask? Contact us today to have them answered by our tyre experts!