Maintaining the tyres on heavy goods vehicles is one of the most critical responsibilities of any fleet manager. Tyres are the sole contact point between a fully loaded HGV and the road, meaning their condition directly influences braking distances, fuel consumption, handling stability, and overall road safety. A structured maintenance programme is not optional — it is a commercial and legal obligation.
A thorough maintenance routine begins with regular pressure checks. HGV tyres should be checked cold, before the vehicle departs, using a calibrated gauge. Under-inflated tyres generate excessive heat and wear unevenly, while over-inflated tyres reduce grip and increase blowout risk on road impact. Both conditions accelerate tyre degradation and are preventable with simple daily checks.
Visual inspections must form part of every driver walkaround. Drivers should examine each tyre for cuts, bulges, embedded objects, uneven tread wear, and any sidewall distortion. Any tyre showing structural damage should be assessed by a qualified mobile tyre technician before the vehicle is moved. Catching problems early avoids costly roadside failures later in the journey.
Beyond daily checks, periodic professional inspections by a mobile tyre specialist help identify early signs of misalignment, bearing wear, and suspension issues that often reveal themselves through abnormal wear patterns. Addressing these problems proactively prevents expensive emergency callouts, keeps vehicles legally compliant, and supports safer operation across the whole fleet.
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