Tyres are an essential component of any vehicle. They provide stability, traction, and control. Tyre heat buildup however can play the spoilsport by bringing stress and leading to reduced performance, premature wear, and dangerous blowouts. Understanding the causes of tyre heat buildup and how to manage it can help ensure safety and extend the lifespan of your tyres (truck tyres especially).
In this article, Amigo Tyres - trusted for truck tyres in Rocklea, Australia - will share the biggest causes of tyre heat buildup and provide expert tips to mitigate its effects.
What causes tyre heat buildup?
Below are some of the biggest causes of tyre heat buildup:
High-speed driving: More friction is generated between the tyre and the road surface when you drive at high speeds. Why? The tyre flexes and experiences resistance when you drive faster, increasing the heat buildup. Excessive tyre heat buildup can also cause the tyre to degrade and lead to blowouts.
Underinflated tyres: It is one of the most common causes of tyre heat buildup. The tyre becomes more flexible and deforms excessively while rolling since it lacks sufficient air pressure. This increased flexing creates additional friction and causes the tyre to heat up rapidly.
Vehicleoverloading: Exceeding your vehicle's recommended weight capacity places extra stress on your tyres. Overloaded tyres must work harder to support the additional weight, which can lead to increased tyre friction and heat generation. Vehicle overloading can shorten the tyres lifespan and increase the risk of failure.
Excessive braking and accelerating: Sudden braking and rapid acceleration can significantly contribute to tyre heat buildup. Intense friction between the tyre and the road is created when you use hard braking. Similarly, rapid acceleration increases the stress on the tyres and causes them to heat up more quickly.
Hot weather: External temperatures also play a crucial role in tyre heat buildup. The road surface absorbs and radiates heat in hot weather which raises the tyre temperature. This effect is amplified in regions with extreme temperatures, making it more important to monitor tyre pressure and condition regularly.
Improper wheel alignment: Tyres struggle to make proper contact with road surfaces when wheels are misaligned. It causes uneven wear and increased rolling resistance contributing to excessive heat buildup. Regular wheel alignment checks can help you prevent the issue and improve overall performance.
Now, you are aware of the biggest causes of tyre heat buildup. So, let’s discover expert tips to prevent tyre heat buildup.
The below tips and ideas will help you to prevent tyre heat buildup:
Maintain tyre pressure: It is one of the most effective ways to prevent tyre heat buildup. Check your tyre pressure regularly and ensure it matches the manufacturer’s recommended PSI. Always use a reliable pressure gauge and adjust the inflation level as needed.
Avoid overloading: Always follow the manufacturer’s weight limits for your vehicle. Overloading puts stress on tyres and increases the risk of tyre heat buildup. Consider using a tyre specifically designed for higher weight capacities if you frequently carry heavy loads.
Buy high-quality tyres: Invest in high-quality tyres from reputable manufacturers like Amigo Tyres in Rocklea to make a significant difference in heat management. Premium tyres provide better heat resistance and durability.
Drive at average speed: Driving at high speed may give you thrill but it also generates excessive friction and heat. Make a habit of driving at an average speed to reduce tyre heat buildup and improve fuel efficiency.
Inspect tyres regularly: Inspect your vehicle tyres to check for signs of damage, wear, or improper inflation. Look for cracks, bulges, and tread wear patterns that may indicate underlying issues. Catching tyre-related problems early can help prevent dangerous tyre failures and reduce excessive heat buildup.
Allow tyres to cool down: If you are driving for an extended period, allow your tyres to cool down before continuing your journey. Stop driving and inspect your tyres if you notice any signs of excessive heating such as a burning smell or visible smoke.
Tyre Heat Buildup Wrapup
Tyre heat buildup is a common issue and can have serious consequences. Aggressive driving, hot weather, overloading, underinflation, and high speeds can all contribute to excessive heat generation.
Planning to buy premium quality truck tyres in Rocklea or nearby places? Contact us today to inquire about tyre brands and pricing.