Truck tires, detailed requirements to ensure your cargo safety

Spanish regulations on truck tires establish strict and detailed requirements aimed at guaranteeing road safety and environmental protection. Due to their specific characteristics—such as greater weight, larger dimensions, and high load capacity—these vehicles represent a significant risk if not maintained in optimal condition. Therefore, legislation regulates aspects such as homologation, general condition, tread depth, axle compatibility, and conditions for winter use. These regulations are aligned with European standards and are overseen by the Directorate General of Traffic (DGT), with the goal of preventing accidents and reducing the environmental impact of tires at the end of their life cycle.

Among the most outstanding and necessary aspects is the homologation and compatibility of tires mounted on the same axle. Regulations require that all tires on the same axle be identical in brand, model, dimensions, structure, load and speed indices, and category of use. This uniformity is crucial to ensure homogeneous and predictable behavior on the road, reducing risks of instability or failures in traction and braking. For trucks, the use of retreaded tires is permitted, provided they come from the same manufacturer and meet the same technical specifications as new tires. Additionally, the difference in tread depth between tires on the same axle must not exceed 5 mm, as uneven wear compromises traction and safety, especially in adverse conditions.

Another fundamental element is the minimum legal tread depth, which is set at 1.6 mm for all vehicles, including industrial ones. Although there is no specific regulation for trucks, it is recommended not to exceed differences of five millimeters between tires on the same axle. Furthermore, the law prohibits the use of tires with visible damage, such as deformations, cuts, bulges, or those that do not meet the load and speed indices specified by the manufacturer. Regulations state that driving with tires in poor condition incurs fines of 200 euros per tire, which for a truck with multiple axles could result in very high economic penalties, in addition to risks of vehicle immobilization.

Conditions for the use of winter tires are particularly relevant for trucks operating in mountainous areas or cold climates. Regulations require the use of tires marked with M+S (Mud+Snow) or the 3PMSF symbol (snowflake on three peaks) on roads with snow alerts or temperatures below 7°C. In cases of heavy snow (red alert), trucks must use winter tires on all positions with a minimum depth of four millimeters and may be supplemented with chains. Ignoring these regulations can result in fines of up to 200 euros and vehicle immobilization, highlighting the importance of adapting to weather conditions to prevent accidents.

Finally, the lifespan and recycling of tires are priority aspects in recent regulations. Royal Decree 712/2025 reinforces the management of end-of-life tires, promoting the circular economy and extended producer responsibility. For trucks, annual inspections are recommended from the fifth year of use, and replacement after eight years is advised, regardless of visible condition. Processes such as retreading can extend the lifespan up to 2.5 times, provided they are carried out according to technical standards. Additionally, the new European tire label (EU Regulation 2020/740) includes information on energy efficiency, wet grip, and noise, helping to choose safer and more sustainable options. Compliance with these regulations is not only a legal obligation but also essential for the safety of the driver, other road users, and the environment.