Semi trucks, also known as semi-trailer trucks, are big rigs that are designed for transporting freight. Ensuring that you have the proper tires for them is essential to their performance, but you should be aware of how much they cost.
On average, the cost of semi truck tires ranges from $400 to $600 per tire. While this is the standard range, costs may increase depending on the size and the make of the tire. Add-ons to increase performance will also affect the cost.
If you’ve got a semi truck and are interested in seeing the budget you should have for tires, read on to find out what costs you will be facing.
The Cost of Semi Truck Tires
Semi truck tires can be an investment, but they are necessary for comfort and performance. Semi trucks must withstand long trips with cargo, and they need to be appropriately decked with the right kind of tires to do so.
Here are some of the costs that you may have when purchasing tires for your semi truck:
- $400 to $600 per tire: This is the standard price range for standard tires. You should be careful not to invest too little, as the cheaper tires may not give you the best value in the long run. You may find deals for $150 or $300 per tire, but the quality should be considered pre-purchase.
- Up to $1200 per tire: While you can find cheaper options for standard tires, if you want to go for the best performance possible, you may be spending up to $1200 per tire. To get the highest efficiency, the top-range tires will be your best choice.
What Causes the Variations in Costs?
You’ll notice variations in the cost of semi truck tires, and these will be determined by various factors. The pricier tires will include features like high-fuel efficiency and increased performance and durability, but you’ll see other elements affecting the prices.
Truck Size
As you’d expect, the size of the semi truck will have an impact on the tires you’ll need. The larger they are, the more expensive they’ll be. You will most likely have to purchase different sizes and types of tires for your semi truck if you have a big rig.
Truck Type
Semis are made from a combination of units, and those units can require different tires. You can have a drive wheel, steer wheel, or trailer wheel in semis, and your tires will need to be able to accommodate the differences between these. The cost of them will fluctuate, especially if you will need to mix and match.
Wear and Tear
As mentioned before, it may be a better idea to invest more in a set of tires for your semi than less. Tires on semis should be built by manufacturers to last about ten years, but they should generally be replaced between three and six, especially if they have plenty of wear and tear. This is to make sure that you’ll prevent breakdowns related to tire damage.
Warranty
You’ll also notice variations in tire prices depending on the warranty they offer. It’s always recommended to opt for the longest warranty to make sure you are covered for the most amount of time. This will affect the price you’ll pay, but it will keep you safe and protected from extra expenses in case any unforeseen issues affect the tires.
What to Consider When Buying Semi Truck Tires
Semi truck tires are an important investment to make, but you’ll get the most out of them if you know the most essential factors to keep in mind. Here is what you should be aware of when you go to buy your semi tires:
- Tire life: One of the most important elements to research is the tire life of your chosen set. You should get the available option that lasts the longest and also the one that will get you the best cost per mile.
- Performance: You’ll be able to tell the performance you’ll get from your semi tires just by looking at their surface. Softer semi tires will run smoother on the road and cling more seamlessly to it, but they will need to be replaced quicker. Harder tires are better for endurance, and they are better for fuel efficiency.
- Braking system: Your semi’s braking system can have a significant impact on your tire wear. You should generally be softer on the brakes to prevent extra damage, but if your braking system is aggressive on the tires, you should always opt for hard sets.
Conclusion
Semi truck tires have wide cost ranges, from as low as $300 to as high as $1200 per tire. These costs will be affected by the size of the tires, the performance you’re seeking from them, and the warranty they offer. To get the most out of your budget, you should know exactly what you’re seeking to get before you purchase tires for your semi.