Skip to content The affected car transporter with Kässbohrer trailer at the rest area near the A20
A car transporter on the A20 near Neubrandenburg, fully loaded with new vehicles, in the middle of the day — a loud bang from the trailer’s rear axle. The driver immediately feels the vibration, reacts correctly by instinct, and steers the articulated truck to the nearest rest area. What he finds there: a completely destroyed tyre on the trailer axle, the sidewall torn open, the Continental tyre having reached the end of its load limit.
In breakdown situations like this, a 24-hour truck tyre service with Europe-wide breakdown assistance — including abroad — is indispensable for commercial vehicles and every commercial vehicle fleet. Fast availability and a focus on minimal downtime ensure maximum mobility and efficiency in commercial vehicle operations. The nearest breakdown assistance point can be reached at any time by phone or email.
For drivers of car transporters, tyre damage on the road is a particular problem. The trailer carries several tonnes of cargo in the form of cars that cannot simply be transferred to another vehicle. Every hour of downtime costs money, delivery deadlines are put at risk, and an improper tyre change on a motorway hard shoulder can be life-threatening. Truck tyre services offer a broad range of services — from simple repairs, retreading and demanding fitting jobs to digital tyre management solutions such as FleetFox for fleet checks. Choosing a reliable, certified provider (e.g. to ISO 9001) is crucial to ensuring quality and safety. Modern workshops with specialised technicians, extensive fitting experience and modern balancing and fitting equipment are essential for large wheels and fast response times. The availability of branded tyres such as Michelin or Continental, plus the option of retreading, offers flexibility and cost savings. Professional recommendations advocate comparing prices, terms and services from different providers (cost-benefit analysis). The total cost of a tyre service includes materials, labour and additional costs, and varies by region and scope of service. The EU tyre label helps assess fuel efficiency and wet grip. Regular maintenance and tyre servicing (tyre checks every 3–6 months, pressure checks monthly per ISO 3400) extend service life, lower operating costs and reduce the risk of accidents and breakdowns. A simple tyre change costs between 20 and 50 euros per tyre. When changing a tyre, technicians check for correct tyre pressure, optimal tread depth, and robust rubber compounds with steel reinforcement. Well-organised fleet management increases customer satisfaction and boosts the efficiency of the entire fleet.
This article describes the exact course of the job, explains the technical background of tyre damage on a trailer, and shows why professional help with truck tyre service is essential.
The job: what happened on the A20
The car transporter — an articulated truck with a two-axle Kässbohrer trailer, fully loaded with new vehicles from various manufacturers — was travelling east on the A20. Total weight was around 40 tonnes. Shortly before the Neubrandenburg exit (postcode 17033), the driver noticed an unusual sound from the left side of the trailer, followed by clear vibrations in the steering wheel.
The driver immediately slowed down, switched on the hazard lights, and steered the articulated truck in a controlled manner to the nearest rest area. There, the suspicion was confirmed: the outer tyre on the trailer’s rear axle had burst. The tyre sidewall had torn open over a length of about 30 centimetres, and rubber fragments were scattered across the asphalt. The Continental Conti Hybrid HT3 — a proven trailer tyre in size 385/55 R22.5 — had reached the end of its service life.
Continental Conti Hybrid HT3, 385/55 R22.5 — the damaged trailer tyre
Particularly critical: the rim had already made light contact with the ground. Continuing to drive would inevitably have caused damage to the brake disc and possibly the wheel hub. The driver acted correctly — he stopped and called for help.
The 24-hour truck tyre service was contacted via the emergency hotline. A specialised technician was dispatched to the site within a very short time. The technicians for emergency breakdown service have extensive fitting experience on various commercial vehicles and are equipped with modern balancing and fitting machinery, allowing them to safely mount even large wheels. The breakdown service works independently of manufacturer, offering flexibility in tyre brand selection — whether Michelin, Continental or retreaded products. Breakdown assistance is available not only across Germany but also abroad in Europe, with a focus on fast response times to minimise downtime for your commercial vehicle fleet.
A workshop certified to DIN ISO 9001 guarantees particularly high standards across all services. When choosing a truck tyre service, you should therefore look for appropriate certifications. The benefits and quality of this offering cannot be overstated, especially for commercial customers with a larger commercial vehicle fleet who depend on maximum mobility and minimal downtime.
Course of the assistance — step by step
• 12:35 — Tyre damage detected on the A20. Driver heads for the rest area near Neubrandenburg.
• 12:41 — WhatsApp message with photos sent to LKWHelp24. Damage assessed within 4 minutes.
• 12:48 — Partner tyre service in the Neubrandenburg region contacted. Tyre size 385/55 R22.5 available.
• 12:55 — Cost estimate sent via WhatsApp: 950 euros net. Driver confirms immediately.
• 13:22 — Technician arrives at the rest area. Off-road-capable service vehicle with compressor, torque wrench and fitting tools.
• 13:30 — Securing the work area, jacking up the trailer with a hydraulic jack and axle stands.
• 13:55 — Old tyre removed, new Continental tyre fitted. Wheel nuts tightened to the specified torque.
• 14:05 — Pressure test passed. Visual inspection of brakes, rim and wheel hub — everything in order. Driver continues on his way.
Total time from the call to continuing the journey: 1 hour and 24 minutes.
Location: rest area on the A20, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
The A20 between Rostock and Szczecin is one of the most important east-west routes in northern Germany. For car transporters delivering new vehicles from factories in Saxony, the Czech Republic or Slovakia toward Scandinavia or the Baltic Sea region, this route is part of everyday business. The rest area near Neubrandenburg offered enough space for the job, but was not paved firmly enough for an improper jack setup without support plates.
The Kässbohrer trailer is a widely used car transporter across Europe. Its particular feature: the cargo consists of high-value new vehicles that must not be damaged. Tipping the trailer while jacking it up would be catastrophic — not only for the vehicles on the transporter, but also in terms of liability for the transport company.
The axle load on the affected rear axle was approximately 9 tonnes when loaded. The jack had to be placed on steel plates to prevent it sinking into the rest area’s surface. These are details that only an experienced truck tyre service takes into account. A suitable truck tyre service uses specialised staff and modern fitting equipment for large wheels. Modern balancing and fitting machines are essential for safe fitting and guarantee the highest quality and reliability across all services for commercial vehicles. Our services include mobile breakdown assistance, professional workshop work and individual offers for fleet checks — keeping your commercial vehicle fleet mobile at all times.
Step by step: changing the tyre on the trailer
Step 1 — Damage assessment and securing the area: The technician inspects the tyre, checking the rim, brake disc and wheel hub for consequential damage. The work area is secured with warning triangles and cones. Vehicle brakes are applied, wheel chocks positioned.
Step 2 — Jacking up the trailer: The hydraulic jack is placed under the axle — on a steel levelling plate to prevent sinking. The trailer is raised just enough for the tyre to turn freely. Axle stands are positioned as a safety measure.
Step 3 — Removing the damaged tyre: The wheel nuts are loosened with the impact wrench. The damaged Continental Conti Hybrid HT3 is removed from the rim. The rim is checked for cracks and deformation — in this case it was intact.
Step 4 — Fitting the new tyre: The new tyre is mounted onto the cleaned rim. The wheel nuts are first hand-tightened, then torqued to the specified value with a calibrated torque wrench (500–630 Nm depending on axle type). The torque applied is documented.
Step 5 — Pressure test and final check: The tyre is inflated to the specified pressure (typically 8.5–9 bar for trailer tyres). The valve, rim seat and sidewall are checked for leaks. Finally, a visual inspection of the brake system and neighbouring tyres is carried out.
Job timeline
Time | Action | Duration |
12:41 | Report received by LKWHelp24 | — |
12:55 | Cost estimate accepted | 14 minutes |
13:22 | Technician arrives | 27 minutes travel |
13:30 | Securing and jacking up | 8 minutes |
13:55 | Tyre change completed | 25 minutes |
14:05 | Pressure test, inspection, sign-off | 10 minutes |
Total | From call to continuing the journey | approx. 1.5 hours |
Cost of the job
The mobile tyre change on the car transporter’s trailer cost approximately 950 euros net in total. The cost breakdown in detail:
Service | Net price |
|---|---|
Call-out fee (daytime job, Neubrandenburg region) | €120 – 160 |
Truck tyre Continental 385/55 R22.5 (trailer) | €380 – 450 |
Tyre fitting on trailer (incl. jacking, torque) | €150 – 200 |
Disposal of old tyre and tyre debris | €30 – 50 |
Pressure test, visual inspection, report | €40 – 60 |
Total (indicative) | approx. €950 net |
The total cost of a professional truck tyre service consists of materials, labour and any additional costs. These costs vary by region and scope of service. A simple tyre change usually costs between 20 and 50 euros per tyre, while repairs or balancing may incur additional fees. We recommend comparing terms, offerings and services from different providers and carrying out a cost-benefit analysis to achieve the best value for customers.
We value our services and products because they offer real added value to our customers through transparent pricing, fast availability and comprehensive service.
Note: LKWHelp24 issues a binding cost estimate via WhatsApp or phone before every job. The driver knows what the tyre change will cost before the job begins — with no hidden surcharges.
What influences the price of a mobile truck tyre service?
• Tyre size and tyre type (steer axle, drive axle, trailer)
• Time of day of the job (night surcharge from 22:00)
• Travel distance to the job site
• Condition of the surface (motorway, rest area, farm track, terrain)
• Scope of additional work (rim inspection, brake check, disposal)
Why not attempt a truck tyre change yourself?
Changing a tyre on a car is routine for many drivers. On a truck trailer, things look completely different. Here are the reasons why DIY attempts can be dangerous and costly:
• Weight: a single trailer tyre in size 385/55 R22.5 weighs over 60 kilograms. Without fitting equipment and a lift, handling it is nearly impossible.
• Torque: wheel nuts on a trailer require a tightening torque of 500 to 630 Nm. Without a calibrated torque wrench, there is a risk of nuts being too loose — with the risk of the wheel coming off while driving.
• Jack: standard truck jacks are designed for emergencies, not for safe tyre changes on unpaved ground. Without axle stands and levelling plates, there is an acute risk of tipping.
• Brake check: after a tyre blowout, the braking system must be checked. A damaged brake disc or jammed brake pad will go undetected without specialist knowledge.
• Liability: in the event of improper fitting followed by an accident, the driver or the transport company is liable. A documented professional service protects against recourse claims.
When choosing a truck tyre service, look for appropriate certifications such as ISO 9001, as a workshop certified to DIN ISO 9001 often offers higher standards of quality and reliability.
Typical situations in truck tyre service
LKWHelp24 coordinates mobile tyre call-outs across Germany every day. The most common situations:
• Tyre blowout on the motorway — blowout due to overloading, foreign objects or material fatigue. Common in high summer temperatures.
• Gradual pressure loss — nail, screw or kerb damage. Driver only notices the damage during a rest break at a rest area.
• Valve damage — a defective or leaking valve leads to slow pressure loss. On-site repair is possible if the valve is replaced.
• Dual tyres — inner tyre defective — particularly tricky, because the outer tyre compensates for the inner tyre’s pressure loss until it fails as well.
• Rim damage from potholes — deep potholes on rural roads and construction site diversions bend the rim. Result: pressure loss and tyre damage.
• Tyre damage on company premises — storage yards, loading ramps and tight access roads take their toll. Kerb contact and debris fields are common causes.
• Tyre ageing on stationary vehicles — trucks that stand idle for long periods develop flat spots and material fatigue. On the first trip after a long standstill, the tyre can fail.
Truck tyre services offer a broad range of services — from simple repairs to demanding fitting jobs — to respond flexibly and reliably to all the breakdown situations listed above.
Truck fleet management: efficient solutions for fleets
Modern truck fleet management is far more than just managing vehicles — it is the key to efficient, safe and economical operation of the entire truck fleet. Tyres in particular are an area where the right management plays a central role: regular checks, targeted maintenance and timely tyre replacement ensure that vehicles are always ready for service and that unplanned breakdowns on the road are avoided.
By using innovative tyre management solutions, fleet managers can not only increase the safety of their trucks and drivers, but also significantly extend tyre life. This lowers replacement and maintenance costs and reduces the risk of costly tyre breakdowns, which can quickly lead to delivery delays and financial losses. An experienced partner such as Vergölst helps companies develop tailored strategies for their truck fleet — from selecting the right tyres to regular inspection and documentation of all relevant data.
This is how fleets benefit from professional tyre management: vehicles stay reliably on the road, operating costs go down, and the entire fleet is optimally prepared for the daily challenges of the transport business.
Tyre management: planning, monitoring and replacement at a glance
Well-planned tyre management is the backbone of any successful truck fleet. It includes systematic planning, monitoring and targeted replacement of tyres to ensure maximum safety and cost-effectiveness. With the right know-how and an experienced partner at your side, typical problems such as tyre breakdowns, uneven wear or unexpected failures can be effectively avoided.
Professional tyre management systems give fleet managers the ability to keep an eye on the condition of all tyres, optimally plan maintenance intervals, and thereby maximise tyre life. This means less downtime, lower costs and greater safety for drivers and vehicles on the road. A partner like Vergölst brings not only the necessary expertise, but also field-tested solutions tailored to the individual needs of every truck fleet.
The close integration of tyre management and fleet management creates real added value: the entire fleet stays mobile, costs remain predictable, and the risk of unplanned breakdowns is minimised. This helps companies secure their competitiveness and ensures their truck fleet is always ready for service.
Prevention: how to protect your truck tyres
Tyre damage can’t always be avoided — but the risk can be significantly reduced. We recommend these measures to every driver and dispatcher:
• Check tyre pressure daily before setting off — not only on the drive axle, but on the trailer too. Especially with dual tyres: measure the inner tyre pressure separately, not just the outer tyre.
• Check tread depth regularly — the legal minimum of 1.6 mm is too little for long-haul use. Experts recommend replacement once tread depth reaches 3 mm.
• Visually inspect tyre sidewalls — cracks, bulges and abrasion marks on the sidewall are warning signs. Such tyres should be replaced immediately.
• Re-torque wheel nuts after 50 km — after every tyre change, the nuts must be re-torqued. Many transport companies require this in their operating procedures.
• Carry a spare tyre on long routes — especially for car transporters and special transports, a mounted spare tyre on the vehicle is worth it.
• Save LKWHelp24 as a contact — +49 160 5753826. In an emergency, every minute counts. Having the number already saved in your phone saves valuable time.
LKWHelp24 as a partner for truck tyre service in Germany
LKWHelp24 is a leading provider with a broad range of services for commercial vehicles and the commercial vehicle fleet. As a market leader with a dense network of branches and locations across Germany, we take pride in the high quality and reliability of our service. Our truck breakdown assistance and truck tyre services are available 24 hours a day — both nationwide and abroad in Europe. We focus on fast response times to minimise downtime and secure the mobility of your fleet.
Our network includes certified tyre service providers, mobile vehicle workshops and recovery companies in all 16 federal states. We work with companies specialised in heavy-duty vehicle jobs — not with general breakdown services that first have to go looking for a truck tyre.
• Available 24/7 by phone, email and WhatsApp — in German, Russian, Polish and English
• Cost estimate before the job starts — transparent, binding, with no hidden costs
• Nationwide partner network with specialist companies for truck tyres of all sizes
• Fast response time: usually under 60 minutes until the technician arrives
• Breakdown assistance and tyre service also available abroad in Europe
• Job documentation for transport companies and insurers
Using digital tools such as the FleetFox tyre management system allows fleet managers to monitor tyre condition in real time and increases the efficiency of fleet management. Well-organised and effective fleet management can lower operating costs, boost efficiency and increase customer satisfaction.
Conclusion
This job on the A20 near Neubrandenburg shows how a professional truck tyre emergency service works: the driver gets in touch via WhatsApp, LKWHelp24 coordinates the right partner within minutes, and within an hour and a half the articulated truck is back on the road. Cost: 950 euros net, fairly calculated and communicated upfront.
The Continental Conti Hybrid HT3 in size 385/55 R22.5 was replaced professionally, the braking system checked, the rim inspected. The car transporter with its valuable new vehicles was able to safely continue its journey — without consequential damage, without losing more time than necessary.
For drivers and dispatchers, the rule is: never repair tyre damage on a truck trailer yourself. The risks are too high, the tools are missing, and liability is clear. A professional truck tyre service like LKWHelp24 is the safe way to go.
Regular maintenance from a reliable provider like LKWHelp24 extends tyre life, reduces the risk of accidents, and lowers operating costs through reduced fuel consumption and avoided downtime. Our customers benefit from the high quality and reliability of our services — around the clock, across Germany, and also for international commercial vehicle fleets.
Request help now — 24/7
Tyre breakdown, tyre blowout or tyre service? Our 24-hour breakdown service for trucks and commercial vehicles is available at any time — we speak German, Russian, Polish and English.
Phone: +49 160 5753826
Email: info@lkwhelp24.com
24-hour services — nationwide and abroad — also for foreign-language customers and commercial operators
Emergency tyre service near you
Our emergency tyre service near you responds immediately to a tyre breakdown and changes the truck tyre directly on the motorway.
The mobile truck tyre service from LKW Help 24 is available across Germany around the clock.
Looking for an emergency tyre service near me? One call is enough, and our team is on the way to your location.
