My first RV tire maintenance tip is to check your tire pressure regularly: RV tires lose air pressure due to various factors, such as temperature changes and punctures. Underinflated or overinflated tires cause uneven wear and reduce the tire’s lifespan. Always check every tire before each trip! Tire manufacturers publish tire inflation charts for you to follow based on the weight of the RV. When in doubt, ask your tire guy.
Number 2 on my list of RV Tire Maintenance Tips is getting a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). These systems continuously monitor your tire pressure and alert you if the pressure changes beyond the limits you set in the device. They also monitor tire temperature and will alert you to a problem and help to avoid a blowout.
Number 3 is before and during long trips; inspect the tires for damage. Check the tires regularly for any signs of damage, like cracks, cuts, or bulges caused by hitting potholes, curbs, or other obstacles. Replaced damaged tires immediately to prevent blowouts.
Like all tires, number 4 on the list of RV Tire Maintenance Tips is to rotate the tires: Rotating them regularly can help ensure even wear and extend their lifespan. Rotate RV tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles or at least once a year. Check out my article with tons of tips on getting your RV ready to hit the road in spring here: https://www.trbowlin.com/2021/04/20/spring-rv-startup-and-maintenance-de-winterization/
Number 5 on the list is don’t overload the RV: Overloading the RV puts extra stress on the tires, leading to damage and premature wear. Make sure to stay within the recommended weight limits for your RV and avoid carrying unnecessary items.
Number 6 on the RV Tire Maintenance Tips list is never run a tire older than six years! The biggest mistake is not changing the tires regularly, even if they are not worn out. The best practice is to change your RV’s tires every six years!
Don’t forget to carry a tool kit in your RV. Here is an article on the Essential Tools you should carry in your RV.
RV Tire Maintenance Tips While In Storage
Check out my article on how to properly prepare and store your RV for extended periods of time here: https://www.trbowlin.com/2019/12/05/top-18-tips-to-prepare-your-rv-for-storage. It covers every aspect of storing your RV, from tires to rodent prevention.
Number 7 on the list is storing the RV properly. If you’re not using your RV for an extended period, it’s important to store it properly to prevent damage to the tires. Set the jacks so that most of the weight is off of the tires. This will help stop flat spots from developing on the tire.
Number 8 is to store the RV in a cool, dry place and cover the tires to protect them from the sun and other elements.
Number 9 is to use tire covers: Tire covers can help to protect the tires from the sun’s UV rays, which can cause damage and premature aging. They can also help to keep the tires clean and free from debris.
Finally, the number 10 top RV Tire Maintenance Tip is to get a good roadside assistance plan. There are many top-rated roadside assistance plans available. I personally use GoodSam and have been very happy with their service. I have certainly gotten my moneys worth out of it, having been towed twice in my class A motorhome.
Following these tips and you are on the way to seeing your RV tires are properly maintained and provide you with safe and reliable performance on the road.
For more great maintenance ideas, check out these articles on my website:
- New RV Owner Top Tips
- Spring RV startup and maintenance
- Winter Maintenance on your RV
- How to Sanitize an RV Freshwater Tank
- Top 18 Tips To Prepare Your RV For Storage
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