Excessive tyre wear, most reported problem

Excessive or uneven tyre wear continues to be the most frequently reported problem. It is also noted as the most bothersome problem by tractor owners, with overall satisfaction.

The increasing use of tractors for non-farming operations aggravates the issue further, as problem counts on excessive tyre wear increase by 6.5 PP100 when the tractor is also used for non-agricultural applications vs. when its use is solely reserved for farm applications.

A higher proportion of owners who use their tractor for non-agricultural purposes have replaced and re-treaded their original tyres, in comparison to those who have used their tractor only for farming activities.

Overall satisfaction among tractor owners in India improves almost 20 per cent from last year. “Tyre wear can result in higher fuel consumption as well as an uncomfortable and unstable ride,” said Yukti Arora, manager at J.D. Power.

“Customers who report excessive or uneven tyre wear provide much lower ratings on fuel efficiency, traction and ride smoothness of their tractor. When tractors are used for non-farming activities, improper tyre pressure, changing ground-surface conditions from fields to paved roads, and uneven load distribution during haulage operations can cause tyres to wear faster. In order to improve satisfaction with the original tyres,

manufacturers and dealers should educate tractor owners on proper tyre maintenance for enhanced performance and extended tyre life.” “While tractor OEMs continue to compete aggressively on improving their product’s quality to match mounting aspirations and evolving perspectives of customers in rural India, sophisticated product offerings with minimal defects that give customers a ‘bang for their buck’ have become an indispensable requirement for gaining acceptance in the rural market,” said Arora. “Indeed, OEMS that can deliver superior product quality will be best positioned in this developing market.”