Brake and tire failures are among the leading causes of roadside emergencies for truck drivers, especially during long hauls. Keeping your truck’s brakes and tires in top condition isn’t just about avoiding delays—it’s crucial for your safety and the safety of everyone on the road. Here’s how you can actively prevent these failures before they put you or your cargo at risk.
Consistent pre-trip inspections
Before hitting the highway, thorough pre-trip inspections are essential. Checking the brake pads, rotors, hoses, and fluid levels can help you catch early signs of wear or leaks. Don’t forget to look for uneven tire wear, cuts, or bulges that could indicate an impending blowout.
Routine inspections not only help you stay compliant with regulations, but also extend the lifespan of your brakes and tires. Documenting your checks lets you notice compelling patterns—like recurring issues on the same axle—that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Avoid downtime. Marathon gives you on-site truck repairs, 24/7. Call us!
Proper maintenance schedules
Sticking to your truck’s maintenance schedule is one of the best defenses against brake and tire failures. Replace brake components and tires according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, even if they seem to have some life left.
Professional servicing ensures complex systems such as air brakes are adjusted and lubricated properly. Lubrication minimizes the risk of slow or stuck brake application, while periodic alignment and balancing lessen stress on tires during long runs.
You can also read: The hidden costs of bad brakes: 3 signs it’s time for a service
Smart driving habits
The way you drive directly affects the condition of your brakes and tires. Avoid hard stops and sudden lane changes whenever possible; smooth, gradual braking puts far less strain on components.
Maintain a safe speed and allow adequate space for braking, especially in mountainous terrain or adverse weather. Monitoring load distribution prevents excessive pressure on a single tire or braking set, reducing the risk of failure on extended routes.
Call us for truck repair road service here. We are in Florida, Texas and Georgia. Open 24/7.
