Spring Tire Readiness: Preventing Heat Related Tire Failures Before Summer

As temperatures rise in late spring and throughout the summer, underinflated or worn tires become a leading cause of roadside emergencies, vehicle damage, and preventable accidents. Heat related tire failures can lead to costly physical damage claims, increased liability exposure, and extended driver downtime. Preparing tires now—before temperatures peak—is one of the most effective safety and loss control steps a fleet can take.

This article outlines how proactive tire maintenance reduces the risk of blowouts, supports safer driving conditions, and helps protect both your drivers and your fleet’s bottom line. It also highlights how the Enterprise Fleet Management National Service Department (NSD) and the Risk Management Department work together to support fleets through preventive maintenance, roadside assistance, and accident related repair management.

• For fleets operating in colder climates, spring is the appropriate time to transition from winter tires to all season tires
• Snow tires wear faster in warm weather and can reduce fuel efficiency

• Recommended tire pressure (PSI) is found on the driver’s door jamb placard, Owner’s Manual or the Manufacturers website, not the tire sidewall
• The PSI on the sidewall reflects the minimum and maximum allowable pressure
• Spring temperature swings can cause PSI to fluctuate throughout the day

• Look for cracks, bulges, blisters, uneven wear, or sidewall damage
• Most tire manufacturers recommend replacing tires when tread depth reaches 2/32, indicated by tread wear bars in the grooves
• Spring is an ideal time to replace worn or heat vulnerable tires

• The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends rotating tires at least every other oil change
• Regular rotation ensures more even tread wear and extends tire life

• Prolonged UV exposure weakens tire rubber over time
• Encourage shaded or indoor parking when possible
• Use tire covers for vehicles stored outdoors for extended periods

• If available in your vehicle, TPMS helps detect early pressure loss
• Drivers should still manually check PSI using the placard values for optimal performance
• TPMS alerts should be treated as a warning — not a substitute for regular checks

Drivers can present the Enterprise Fleet Management Maintenance Card via:

• The eFleets Mobile App
• The Driver Quick Reference Guide

The service provider will confirm with NSD whether brakes and tires are included in the client’s maintenance program

• All scheduled maintenance
• Most mechanical repairs
• Brakes and tires if included in the program

• Repairs due to neglect, abuse, or collisions
• Repairs to aftermarket equipment
• Glass repairs
• Body damage (handled by the Risk Management Department)

• 24/7 availability via the eFleets Mobile App
• United States: 1 800 325 8838
• Canada: 1 877 859 1763

• Heat related blowouts and roadside incidents
• Tire related physical damage claims
• Driver and vehicle downtime
• Fuel inefficiency caused by improper PSI
• Premature wear and replacement costs
• Accident and liability exposure

• I CAR certified Claims Support Coordinators manage the entire claims process
• Includes reporting, repair coordination, subrogation, and replacement vehicle support when applicable

• Accident reporting through the eFleets Mobile App simplifies the process
• National body shop partnerships can help accelerate repair timelines
• Repairs are handled with minimal driver involvement to reduce operational disruption

• No annual lump sum or down payment
• No additional finance charge added to monthly rate
• Access to negotiated labor and repair rates

• Helps ensure proper maintenance and tire care
• Provides mechanical support and 24/7 roadside assistance
• Confirms service coverage and authorizations

• Manages accident related claims and body repairs
• Supports faster repair turnaround and reduced downtime
• Helps minimize repair costs and administrative burden

Together, these teams help prevent issues before they occur and manage them effectively when they do.