How Many Times Should You Stop to Check Tire Air on a Long Trip?

Long trips require meticulous attention to maintain tire pressure and ensure a safe journey. As an experienced truck driver, I often share my insights on tire maintenance, especially when it comes to checking tire pressure during travel.

Understanding the Importance of Regular Tire Pressure Checks

When you embark on a long trip, it's essential to check your tire pressure before starting. For the most part, you won't need to refill the air during the journey, unless there's a sudden drop in pressure due to a puncture or other issues. However, if you notice a significant decrease in air pressure, taking immediate action is crucial for safety reasons.

Immediate Action Required

If you are losing air while driving in the city, make sure to address the issue right away. At highway speeds, a tire that is already low can flex and heat up rapidly, leading to a blown-out tire. Even a short stop to check and adjust the pressure can be challenging with a hot tire. It may take several hours for the tire to cool down, making it almost impossible to determine the correct pressure to add.

Personal Experience with Tire Blowout

Years ago, I picked up a nail on a major highway. Fortunately, I noticed the rear end of the vehicle became unstable as the pressure dropped. When I pulled over to the shoulder, the tire eventually came off at low pressure. It was too hot to touch, even after a short period of time.

Tire Durability During Long Trips

Once your tires are properly inflated before a trip, they should maintain their pressure throughout the journey. This is assuming there isn't a puncture or damage from obstacles such as nails or sharp objects. However, if you do encounter a puncture, it's important to address the issue immediately by letting the tire deflate and getting it repaired.

Preventative Tire Maintenance and Suggested Practices

Before embarking on a long trip, it's imperative to check the tire pressure of all your tires, including the spare if you have one. This ensures that your tires are at the recommended pressure when you start your journey. Additionally, it's wise to visually inspect the tires each morning after an overnight stop during your trip.

Use an accurate pressure gauge to further ensure the correct pressure. Any significant variations in tire pressure could indicate a slow leak, which should be addressed promptly to avoid potential issues.

Walk-Around Inspection

During rest periods, such as when you stop at rest areas, it's advisable to walk around the vehicle and perform a thorough check of the lights and tires. While a long trip might take up to seven hours, it's important to remember that you won't have the luxury of time to handle a low-pressure tire mid-trip, especially in the context of making money and meeting delivery schedules.

Final Thoughts

Proper tire maintenance isn't just a matter of safety; it's also a practical consideration for your business. If you're a truck driver or any driver who frequently travels long distances, prioritizing tire pressure checks can save you time, money, and potential hazards. Remember, your tire pressure is just one aspect of overall vehicle maintenance, but it plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and safe journey.