5 Common Volvo FE Tire Problems and How to Prevent Them

Volvo FE trucks handle diverse and demanding routes, which means tire issues are frequent and potentially costly. From wear-and-tear to blowouts, these issues don’t just impact performance—they can also endanger drivers. Let’s dig into the five most common tire problems for Volvo FE trucks and how you can prevent them.

1. Uneven Tread Wear

Tread wear across a tire’s surface should ideally be even; however, uneven tread wear is a common problem in Volvo FE trucks and other heavy-duty vehicles. Uneven wear occurs due to misalignment, poor inflation, or unbalanced loads, which can cause one part of the tire to wear faster than others. This not only reduces tire life but can also lead to unsafe handling on the road.

Prevent Uneven Tread Wear

• Regular Alignment Checks: Misalignment causes some areas of the tire to bear more load, accelerating wear.
• Maintain Proper Inflation: Improper tire pressure causes unequal distribution of weight, leading to uneven tread wear.
• Balanced Loads: When unevenly loaded cargo, it creates excess pressure on some tires, causing faster wear on specific sections.

2. Tire Blowouts

A sudden tire blowout can be dangerous, especially at high speeds or with a heavy load. Tire blowouts on Volvo FE trucks often result from under-inflation, overloading, or damaged sidewalls. Besides posing a safety risk, blowouts lead to unexpected downtime and costly repairs.

Stop Tire Blowouts

• Check Tire Pressure Regularly: Under-inflated tires overheat easily, increasing the risk of blowouts.
• Avoid Overloading: Overloading increases stress on tires beyond their designed load capacity, making blowouts more likely.
• Inspect for Sidewall Damage: Cuts or bulges in sidewalls weaken the tire structure, which can suddenly give way under pressure.

3. Sidewall Cracking

Sidewall cracks are a common issue for Volvo FE tires, especially in trucks that operate in harsh environments or extreme temperatures. Over time, weather and road debris can weaken the rubber, leading to cracks along the sidewalls. These cracks compromise tire integrity and make the tire vulnerable to blowouts or tread separation.

Tips To Block Tire Sidewall Cracks

• Use Weather-Resistant Tires: Exposure to UV light and temperature extremes accelerates cracking, so invest in durable, weather-resistant tires.
• Protect Against Road Debris: Debris on rough roads can strike and damage sidewalls, weakening the rubber.
• Regular Inspections: Small cracks can worsen over time, so early identification can prevent costly replacements.

4. Cupping or Scalloping

Cupping or scalloping refers to irregular, wavy wear patterns on the tire tread. This often results from issues with suspension, unbalanced tires, or poor shock absorption. Not only does it shorten tire life, but it can also lead to a bumpy ride and poor handling.

Prevention Tips: Cupping or Scalloping

• Ensure Proper Suspension Alignment: Misaligned suspension causes tires to bounce, leading to a wavy wear pattern.
• Balance Tires Regularly: Unbalanced tires create uneven contact with the road, which causes scalloping.
• Check Shock Absorbers: Poor shock absorption causes tires to hit the road unevenly, leading to abnormal wear.

5. Punctures and Slow Leaks

Punctures and slow leaks are common issues for Volvo FE trucks, especially for those operating on construction sites or gravel roads. Sharp objects like nails, glass, or rocks can pierce the tires, leading to slow air leaks. Left unchecked, these can cause under-inflation and increase the risk of blowouts.

No More Punctures Leaks

• Inspect Tires for Embedded Objects: Sharp objects can become lodged in the tread, slowly releasing air.
• Use Puncture-Resistant Tires: Reinforced tires are better suited for rough or debris-filled environments where punctures are more common.
• Check Tire Pressure Frequently: Slow leaks reduce pressure over time, so frequent pressure checks can alert you to potential leaks.

Tire Preventive Maintenance for Volvo FE Trucks

Routine tire preventive maintenance is essential for Volvo FE trucks to ensure safety, maximize tire life, and reduce overall costs. By regularly checking tire pressure, alignment, and tread wear, drivers can prevent premature wear, reduce the likelihood of dangerous blowouts, and improve fuel efficiency. This means that well-maintained tires provide better traction and handling, which is especially important for heavy-duty trucks operating in diverse and challenging environments. Additionally, addressing minor issues early—like uneven tread or slow leaks—can save significant expenses by avoiding the need for early tire replacements. Consistent tire maintenance keeps Volvo FE trucks running smoothly, reduces downtime, and ensures drivers stay safe.

Extend Your Volvo FE Tire Lifespan Today

For Volvo FE trucks, tires are a vital and costly investment, and each common problem has a straightforward prevention strategy. Mobile Transportation Group Inc. offers services from ensuring proper alignment and inflation to inspecting sidewalls and watching for punctures. Regular maintenance can prevent the most frequent tire issues. Prioritizing these checks and habits keeps drivers safe, minimizes downtime, and extends the life of your Volvo FE tires. Read our article on brakes to learn more about heavy-duty trucks Freightliner 114sd plus