Symptoms
- One or more trailer tires show more wear than others
- Wear pattern looks angled or concentrated on one edge
- Trailer pulls slightly to one side when towing
Likely causes
- CommonIncorrect or uneven tire pressureTrailer tires are especially sensitive to pressure since they often carry heavier, more static loads than car tires.
- CommonOverloaded trailer or uneven weight distributionToo much weight, or weight loaded unevenly side-to-side or front-to-back, stresses tires unevenly.
- PossibleAxle misalignmentA bent axle or misaligned suspension causes tires to wear at an angle, similar to a car's alignment issue.
- PossibleWorn or seized suspension componentsWorn leaf springs, bushings, or axle mounts can allow the axle to sit incorrectly.
What to do
- Check and correct tire pressure on all trailer tires to the rating specified on the tire sidewall, which for trailer tires is usually meant to be run at the max cold pressure listed.
- Confirm the trailer isn't overloaded by checking its weight rating (GVWR) against the actual loaded weight, and redistribute cargo evenly if needed.
- Look at the wear pattern closely; feathering or wear concentrated on one edge suggests an alignment issue rather than just pressure or load.
- Visually inspect the axle for any obvious bending or misalignment, and check suspension components (leaf springs, shackles, bushings) for wear or damage.
- Rotate trailer tires periodically if the trailer has more than one axle, similar to a car, to help even out wear.
- If wear continues despite correct pressure and loading, have a trailer shop check axle alignment.
Tools and parts
- Tire pressure gauge
Replacement trailer tires, correct size and load ratingSearch: “trailer tire size and load rating for [your trailer]”
When to call a pro
If tire wear looks angled or an axle appears bent, have a trailer specialist check alignment before it wears through a new set of tires.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.