Your forklift tyres do more than keep the truck moving. They support heavy loads, absorb shock and help with steering. When tyres wear down, the whole machine suffers. Safety drops. Productivity takes a hit. Downtime creeps in.

But tyres rarely fail without warning. Most give off signs long before they become a problem. Spotting these early can save time, money and accidents. Here are seven clear signs your forklift tyres might be trying to tell you something.

Tread Wear Has Hit the Limit

Most forklift tyres have a visible wear line built into the rubber. Once the tread reaches this point, it’s time to replace them. Worn tread means reduced grip, which affects braking, turning and overall stability. Pushing past this limit can lead to slips, skids, or even tipping over, especially on smooth or uneven surfaces. If you’re close to the line, don’t wait. Your forklift and your team will thank you.

Flat Spots Are Affecting Your Drive

Flat spots form when a forklift sits too long with weight pressing on one part of the tyre. They also happen during sharp turns or sudden braking under heavy loads. These spots can make the ride feel bumpy and uneven. You might notice the truck vibrating more than usual. That constant shake doesn’t just feel rough, it also puts extra strain on parts like the suspension and bearings.

You’re Spotting Cracks, Splits, or Chunks Missing

If you can see cracks, splits, or missing chunks of rubber, your tyres are in trouble. This kind of damage usually points to physical wear, old age, or repeated impacts. It’s often caused by rough yard surfaces, sharp debris, or hitting kerbs. These flaws weaken the tyre’s structure and can quickly lead to a full blowout, especially under load. If you see damage like this, it’s best to act fast by getting your forklift serviced or repaired.

Uneven Wear Is Developing Across the Tyre

Tyres should wear down evenly across the tread. If one side looks more worn than the other, something’s off. It could be poor alignment, unbalanced loads, or aggressive cornering. If you’re using pneumatic tyres, the pressure might be too low or too high. Uneven wear affects grip and steering, making the truck harder to handle. It’s a clear sign something needs checking.

You’re Noticing a Drop in Ride Comfort

If your forklift feels rougher to drive than usual, the tyres might be to blame. Worn or damaged tyres can make the ride feel bumpier, especially over uneven ground. That extra shake doesn’t just affect comfort, it puts strain on the forklift and the operator. A smooth ride starts with healthy tyres.

You Keep Getting Punctures or Pressure Loss

If you’re constantly topping up air or dealing with slow punctures, your tyres may be nearing the end. Repeated pressure loss in pneumatic tyres often points to internal damage or worn-out rubber. It might seem minor at first, but it can lead to sudden failure. Better to sort it before that happens.

The Tyre Looks Tired (Literally)

Sometimes, it’s not the tread that gives the game away, it’s how the tyre looks and feels. If the rubber looks faded, cracked, or feels hard and brittle, it’s probably past its best. Exposure to sunlight, heat and chemicals can age tyres fast, even if they haven’t had much use. And the risk? A tyre that looks fine on the surface but fails under pressure. Don’t take that chance.

Your tyres won’t shout for help, but they will show signs when something’s wrong. Spotting these early keeps your forklift safe and your team productive. Regular checks can stop small issues turning into expensive problems. 

If you’ve noticed any of the signs we’ve covered, we’re here to help. Get in touch to book a tyre check or replacement with H&F Lift Trucks today. We’ll give you the green light on whether your forklift is safe to drive, ultimately giving you peace of mind.