If you’re a CSI fan, you probably remember the episode where a blown-out big rig tire was the “killer,” striking a teenager who was racing a go-kart down a highway.  If you’re a trucker and a CSI fan, you certainly remember that episode, and probably the Mythbusters segment that confirmed it. And whether these shows crack you up or make you a little nervous, they certainly reinforce the fact that, for truck drivers, tire maintenance is incredibly important.  

Unfortunately, that maintenance doesn’t come cheap.  In fact, Continental Tire North America recently told the press that it will increase tire prices by ten percent on Continental, General, Semperit, and Private Brand tires. Occurring after an eight percent increase that occurred on the first of this month for two of these tire brands—Continental and General—the ten percent increase will take place on the first of October. Like most recent price hikes, the company blames the price of raw materials, including crude oil, for the increase in price.  

But just because the price of tires continues to go up does not mean that truckers can choose to ignore proper tire maintenance. Instead, truckers who don’t want to injure themselves or others or damage their vehicles need to continue to assess the health of their tires and repair problems. For truckers who are new to the profession, dealing with big rig tires can be challenging. Fortunately, many resources exist to help truckers perform routine repairs and maintenance checks on their vehicle’s tires. For instance, many web sites that carry tires also feature service departments that will assist truckers with tire changes and maintenance. Many articles on the Internet suggest the importance of tire maintenance in terms of fuel economy, informing truckers how to keep their tires working for them instead of working against them. Even YouTube features a clip that teaches truckers how to change big rig tires.  

Because resources involving tire maintenance are easier to find than it might seem, and because tires are exempt from the price increase in September, truckers should do their tire buying during this month. And although they may be raising their prices, the quality of Continental Tires makes them worth the cost even after the price hike has taken effect. Continental tires have been awarded recognition as one of the most eco-friendly tires available on the market.  In fact, Continental’s Eco Plus tires are specially designed to increase fuel economy. For truckers that are more concerned with saving money than saving the planet, however, Continental features premium tires that have a long life and a low level of fuel consumption. Because Continental has a variety of tire models that truckers can choose from, each trucker will find the perfect tire to satisfy their truck and occupation from Continental. Outfitted with warranties and the product of extensive technology knowledge and research, Continental tires will satisfy almost any trucker.  

For truckers who want to learn more about the company, however, the Continental web site not only features information about the tires they sell, but it also has the tire fitter application, which will help truckers choose the right product. Similarly, the company offers information about how to build the perfect tire and offers assistance to truckers in need. For this reason, even though their prices are rising, Continental Tires are worth the investment.