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How Weather Affects Truck Tyre Pressure and Performance
As a truck driver, you know the condition of your tyres is important from the moment you start your journey. The tyres take a beating from the seasonal changes that the weather puts them through. Everything from sudden spikes in temperature to harsh winter chills takes a toll on your grip, the pressure of your tyres, and their longevity. If left unmonitored, you may end up with increased fuel consumption, uneven tyre wear, or worse, a breakdown on the road.
That’s why Amigo Tyres—trusted for truck tyres service in Rocklea—decided to share this easy guide on how different weather conditions impact tyre pressure and overall performance.
Every driver, and especially young drivers, will be able to take better care of their tyres with the right knowledge.
The Physics Behind Tyre Pressure and Temperature
Physics teaches us that most tyres are made up of thin air sealed between rubber. The performance of tyres is observed and altered with the seasons. To understand this better, let's start with the fundamental rule of physics: when air is heated, it expands; conversely, it contracts when cooled. It is crystal clear how the outside temperature might have an effect on tyre pressure, fuel consumption, and mileage.
- Every drop of 10°C might cause tyres to lose 1-2 PSI.
- Likewise, for every 10°C rise, it can increase by 1-2 PSI.
In simpler terms, consider how a truck tyre is designed to run at a certain pressure level, then maintained. Even the slightest fluctuations would impact performance, safety, and fuel economy.
Summer Heat: Overinflation Risk on the Rise
Looking after your tyres is important when temperatures soar, although the warm weather does have its perks.
What Happens:
- Tyre problems become increasingly likely between June and August as the heat triggers expansion.
- Air pressure might now exceed the recommended PSI and result in stiff, rigid, overinflated tyres.
- Overinflated tyres become rigid, and the contact patch with the road gets reduced.
- This can make long drives very dangerous, and sluggish acceleration leads to diminished efficiency.
The Impact:
- Excess tyre pressure can lead to significantly reduced grip, causing poor traction on the road surface.
- Increased risk of blowouts subsequently leads to uneven tyre wear and vibrations, which can cause diminished responsiveness.
- Overinflated tyres and low grip can lead to reduced braking efficiency and sluggish response.
- Increased mechanical effort is needed due to the loss of traction, which supplies diminished braking power.
Summer tip:
During the remainder of July, be sure to check your tyres in the morning when cooler temperatures prevail.
Winter Chill: Underinflation & Traction Troubles
During the winter months, cold weather can lead to equally dangerous impacts on tyre pressure.
What Happens:
- Air contracts, driving the pressure in your tyres down.
- Tyres appear flatter and can look underinflated even when they’re close to the recommended level.
The Impact:
- Increased fuel consumption in both city and highway driving can be directly correlated with reduced efficiency.
- Overfilled tyres can lead to uneven wear on the treads on the outer edges, which sterling performance year-round.
- Though overfilled tyres can be protective in summer, the risk of hydroplaning increases significantly.
- Risk of tyre damage or sidewall cracking.
Winter Tips:
Check the tyre pressure more commonly in winter. Underinflated tyres can make trucks harder to handle, especially when braking on slippery roads.
Rain and Wet Roads: The Slippery Threat
Even though rain doesn’t cause any changes to tyre pressure, it impacts it in one way or the other. As such, it's essential to know:
The Risk:
- Increased Speed With Wet Roads:
- Improperly maintained or set-up vehicles, along with worn-out tyres, are much more prone to hydroplaning.
How does it affect you:
- Less Comfy ride during long journeys.
- Long-distance travel becomes challenging without a reliable vehicle.
- Under-inflation adds stress on the sidewalls of the tyres.
Rainy Season Tips:
If you expect that your vehicle will face a lot of wear during the rainy season, make sure that the tread depth is optimal. Use specific tyres made for high-performance in humid weather.
All-Season vs. Weather-Specific Truck Tyres
Vehicles cannot be built or set up for all situations. Customising your vehicle depending on the areas you travel through is essential, such as:
- All-season tyres – Can be used at all times. High flexibility, but in some limited regions, the grip might not be as strong.
- Summer tyres – Great for dry and hot areas. Excellent grip.
- Winter tyres – Specialised for icy terrains. Softer rubber and deeper treads than normal.
If your routes are seasonal, simply change between the seasonal tyres as the weather transitions.
Prepared for Every Weather Condition on the Road: Conclusion
Adverse weather conditions are sure to happen, but your tyres don’t always have to incur damage. Being mindful of how temperatures, whether scorching hot or freezing cold, can affect truck tyres is important for safer and more efficient driving.
You know what to do, so do it. Proactive measures undergo maintenance, smart measures like monitoring pressure during all weather conditions. Remember, truck tyres are the single contact point between the vehicle and the road. Let’s ensure they are ready—come rain or shine.
Still got any queries to ask? Contact us today to have them answered by our truck tyre experts! Or visit our Rocklea workshop to experience how we repair, rotate, align, and shine truck tyres.
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