TruckTireGuide.com Semi Truck Tire Reference

Tire Inspection

Out-of-Service Tire Conditions

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Out-of-service language should be handled carefully. The enforceable criteria can change, and roadside decisions depend on current standards and the facts in front of the inspector.

Treat the list as a conservative maintenance screen, not as official legal or compliance advice.

This site is for general information only. It does not replace professional tire service, DOT compliance advice, tire manufacturer instructions, vehicle manufacturer recommendations, or fleet policy.
Source review note: This page covers a topic where current policy, carrier rules, paid technical standards, or enforcement criteria may affect the correct answer. Use this as background only. Verify applicable regulations, manufacturer guidance, and carrier or fleet policy before making service decisions.

Conditions to escalate

  • Visible cord, belt, or casing material in the tread or sidewall
  • Flat tire or severe underinflation
  • Bulge or evidence of separation
  • Tread or sidewall damage that may expose structure
  • Load carried beyond tire capacity
  • Tire use prohibited by current rule or policy
  • Tread depth below federal minimums (4/32 inch steer, 2/32 inch other positions)

Source note

Federal tire rules are available through eCFR.gov. CVSA out-of-service criteria are a separate inspection reference, updated annually, and should be checked through official or authorized channels before making a compliance decision. The full CVSA handbook may require purchase or authorized access.

Step-by-Step Checklist

  • Do not dispatch on obvious structural tire defects.
  • Check current regulation text at eCFR.gov.
  • Follow carrier maintenance authority.
  • Document correction before returning to service.

FAQ

What are examples of tire conditions that can result in a vehicle being placed out of service?

Conditions typically associated with out-of-service orders include: visible cord or belt material in the tread or sidewall; flat or severely underinflated tires; sidewall bulges or separations; cuts that expose casing structure; tires carrying load beyond rated capacity; tread depth below federal minimums (4/32 inch on steer, 2/32 inch on other positions); and tires specifically prohibited for the axle position by current rules. The exact thresholds are defined in the current CVSA North American Standard out-of-service criteria.

How quickly must an out-of-service tire condition be corrected?

A vehicle placed out of service for a tire condition may not move under its own power until the condition has been corrected and the vehicle is back in compliance. Correction means replacing or repairing the tire to bring it into compliance with applicable standards — not just topping up air and hoping the inspector does not look again. Document the correction before the vehicle returns to service.

Where can I find the current out-of-service criteria for commercial vehicle tires?

The CVSA (Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance) publishes the North American Standard Out-of-Service Criteria, which detail the specific thresholds used during roadside inspections. The full handbook is updated annually and may require purchase or authorized access. The CVSA website (cvsa.org) provides overview information and ordering details. Federal regulation text applicable to tire condition is available at eCFR.gov under 49 CFR 393.75.

Source Notes

References are used for context and verification. Exact tire service decisions should use current manufacturer data, applicable regulations, and qualified inspection.

Source note: this page is marked for periodic source review because the topic can depend on current policy or paid inspection criteria.