Your RV's tires are one of the most critical components that keep you rolling down the highway. Unfortunately, they're also among the most neglected —until they fail, which can be both dangerous and costly.
In fact, tire blowouts cause more than 70,000 highway accidents per year.
So proper tire care isn't just optional... It's an essential aspect of RV maintenance that prevents blowouts, protects your RV, and ensures a safe ride for you and your family.
Below, we cover how to spot early warning signs of tire deterioration, change an RV tire safely, and prevent future issues.
How Often Should You Change RV Tires?
RV tires can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years or longer. But many factors determine when and how often they need to be changed, including age, mileage, storage conditions, and exposure to sunlight and heat.
But as a general rule, RV tires should be replaced after 10 years, regardless of their mileage. After that, the rubber is bound to be weaker, which means the tires are more likely to blow out while you're on the road.
Most tires are tested and designed to last about 50,000 miles. However, some models, especially sturdier truck or RV tires, can be designed to last for 80,000 miles or more.
The more important takeaway here is that you need to regularly inspect your tires to ensure they're in good working order. And always double-check them before heading out on longer trips.
Before every trip, take a quick look for signs of dry rot, cracks, bulges, or leaks, all of which indicate the tire needs to be replaced.
Signs It's Time to Replace Your RV Tires
If a tire is constantly losing air, or if you notice cracks, dry rot (discolored or deteriorated rubber), or bulges on the sidewalls or treads, it's time to replace that tire.
However, several other warning signs can indicate your RV tires have reached the end of their road, too.
- Uneven tread wear - Signs of uneven tread wear are among the earliest indicators that it's time to replace your tires. The tires might still have most of their tread, but if you notice irregular patterns when tread is missing (cupping) or there's less tread on one side of the tire, it's an indication the tire is on its last leg.
- Vibration or noise while driving - If your RV feels bumpier or louder than it once did, there's a good chance your tires are worn out. Some tires (winter tires or tires with nubbier treads) do make more noise than others. So noise isn't always a sign it's time to replace them. But if you're using the same tires that used to be quiet and are loud now... It's a good sign they need replacements.
- Low tread depth- Even if your tires still have tread, if the tread depth has shrunk to less than 4/32" or 3.175mm, it's time to replace them. Low tread depth means your tires have less grip, which can lead to hydroplaning during rainy weather or uncontrolled sliding on ice and snow.
- Visible steel belts - If you can see the steel belts through the rubber, it's a clear indication that the tread has worn completely away. It's time to replace the tire immediately. Driving on tires with visible belts is dangerous and heightens your risk of experiencing a blowout.
Safety tip: Driving on worn-out tires can be incredibly dangerous, putting your, your family's, and other drivers' lives at risk. So if you notice any of the signs we've listed above, don't risk it! Replace your tires immediately before something bad happens!
Can You Change RV Or Travel Trailer Tires Yourself?
Yes, if you have the right tools, the know-how, and a bit of confidence, you can easily change RV tires yourself, even on the side of the road.
For emergency roadside flats, some RV owners prefer calling roadside assistance, which can be a small price to pay for the convenience of having a pro come out and repair or replace their tires.
However, if you don't have roadside assistance and feel comfortable tackling the job on your own, here's the gear you'll need to have on hand:
- Heavy-duty jack (rated for the weight + load of your RV)
- Tire iron or lug wrench
- Properly inflated spare tire
- Work gloves
- Reflective triangles (part of a roadside emergency safety kit)
- Air compressor
Expert tip: Because RV tires are larger and heavier, changing one on your own can be a relatively intense project. Get someone to help you mount and dismount your tires whenever possible.
How To Change RV Tires Safely Yourself (Step-by-Step)
Whether you've experienced a blowout on the highway, a flat tire before pulling out of your campsite, or it's simply time to replace your RV tires, changing them doesn't have to be complicated.
Here's a step-by-step guide to changing RV tires safely.
Step 1 - Park And Secure The RV
Before jacking up an RV, make sure you're parked on flat, level, and firm ground. You should only ever lift jack a vehicle that's parked of asphalt or concrete.
Never attempt to lift a vehicle if it is parked on soft ground like grass, gravel or dirt. Softer ground can give out from beneath your jack or supports, causing the RV to drop suddenly.
Once parked, make sure to engage the parking brake and use wheel chocks to prevent the tires from rolling unexpectedly.
Step 2 - Prepping Your Tires
Take a few minutes to make sure you've got all the right tools and parts on hand to complete the swap. This includes a heavy-duty jack, tire iron or lug wrench, spare, and a sturdy set of work gloves.
Before lifting the vehicle, loosen the lug nuts with the wrench. Trust us, it's a lot easier to do this while the car is still on the ground. Otherwise, you'll have to fight with the wheel turning while trying to crack the nut.
Step 3 - Jack Your RV
Now it's time to lift your vehicle off the ground. Some RV models have built-in hydraulic jacks or leveling systems. You may be able to use this to lift your vehicle off the ground to change the tire. If not, you'll need to use a jack and do it manually.
If you're unsure, check your RV owner's manual to find the correct lift points, which may or may not be marked. The safest lifting points are typically located on the main chassis frame or near the axle spring mount.
Then crank the jack to lift your RV until you have adequate clearance to remove and replace the tire.
Safety tip: Never crawl underneath a lifted RV without using jack stands or proper supports. A jack is only designed to lift the vehicle, not support it safely. And, never place a jack on the axle itself or any rounded or uneven chassis components.
Step 4 - Remove And Replace Tire
Once your RV is off the ground and has adequate clearance, remove the lug nuts, dismount the flat or worn tire, and replace it with a spare or replacement tire.
Note that RV tires can be pretty heavy. So ask a second person for help, or make sure to lift correctly, using your legs, not your back.
Once you've mounted the new tire, re-install your lug nuts and tighten to the proper torque specs. Refer to your RV's owner's manual for the correct torque specifications.
Step 5 - Retorque After 100 Miles
Lastly, it's time to lower the vehicle and put your tools away. Pat yourself on the back and tell your significant other that you've successfully replaced the tire all by yourself.
But to ensure the tire stays on properly and prevent wobbling, you'll need to recheck and retorque the lug nuts after driving about 60 to 100 miles.
Safety tip: Even when you've tightened your lug nuts properly, after driving that initial distance, it's not uncommon for them to loosen a bit. So don't forget to check them at your next pit stop, and retorque as needed.
Where To Get Your RV Tires Changed, Repaired, Or Replaced
If you can't or don't want to replace your RV tires yourself, you can have someone else do it for you. As long as it's safe to drive, you could bring your rig to a local RV service center or tire shop.
Some repair shops may even offer mobile RV tire replacement services. So it's good to call around first before driving anywhere.
If you're in an unfamiliar city or state, all you need to do is search online for things like "change RV tires near me" or "RV tire service + your location."
Image courtesy of Juup Schram @ Unsplash.com
How to Prevent Tire Damage Between Trips
It's impossible to know when you might run over something or a tire might suddenly give out. But there are things you can do to reduce your risk of blowouts and prevent tire damage while your RV is parked between trips.
- Regularly check PSI (cold) - Keep your RV tires inflated to the recommended levels, even when parked for extended periods.
- Store your RV off the ground - It's best to keep your RV lifted and the tires off the ground when parked in between trips.
- Rotate tires - Whether your RV has individual, tandem, or dual axles, it's beneficial to rotate your tires once per year to reduce uneven wear.
- Inspect regularly - Whether the rig has been parked for a week or a few months, it's crucial to inspect your tires and check their pressure before and after each trip.
- Cover your tires - Use TireShield Pro RV Tire Covers to protect against UV, heat, and weather damage, especially when your RV is parked for the winter.
Pro tip: Only check your pressure when your tires are "cold" and haven't been warmed up from being driven on. Warm tires can cause the air inside them to expand, which can give you a faulty or incorrect pressure reading.
RV Tire Safety Tips for the Road
Whether you're heading out for a weekend trip to a national park or a cross-country road trip with the whole family, it's crucial to take a bit of time to think about safety and plan for emergencies before leaving.
Here are a few more safety tips to keep in mind as an RV owner.
- Always carry a full-size spare and tire-changing tools, including a heavy-duty jack, lug wrench, and work gloves.
- Keep an emergency roadside kit and reflective gear, which can be purchased or assembled yourself.
- Store important papers in a FireShield Pro Bag, which includes your RV registration, insurance, roadside assistance info, and other documents.
- Consider roadside assistance, which can be a lifesaver when you're on the road and find yourself with a flat tire
- Planning for emergencies is the best way to ensure you and your family stay safe while on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions - How To Change RV Or Motorhome Tires
Changing an RV tire isn't all that complicated. All it takes is having the right tools on hand, a bit of know-how, and some elbow grease. But, in case we've missed anything, here are a few frequently asked questions we hear from our readers.
How do I know when my RV tires are too old?
You'll know your RV tires are too old if they are discolored, cracked (dry rot), worn-out, or have flat spots or bulging sidewalls. Worn-out tires may vibrate and create a lot of noise while driving. And lastly, if you notice uneven tread wear or see the steel belts showing through the rubber, it's time to replace your tires as soon as possible.
How much does RV tire replacement cost?
Replacing a complete set of RV tires costs between $250 and $600 per tire. However, the cost depends on the RV size and the brand name of tires you're purchasing. Labor can also add another $50–$100 per tire if done at a shop.
How long do RV tires usually last?
RV tires can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years. But it really depends on how often and how far they've been driven. Most tires are designed to last about 50,000 miles. But depending on weather and storage conditions, they may wear out sooner. That's why it's essential to inspect them before and after every trip.
Can I use car tires on an RV or travel trailer?
No, you can't use car tires on an RV or travel trailer. RV tires are generally bigger and have different weight and speed ratings than conventional car tires. So you need to find RV tires suited to the specific size, class, and weight of your recreational vehicle.
Should I replace all RV tires at once?
Yes, we recommend replacing all your RV tires at once. Replacing the full set might be a bigger cost. But it ensures that all your tires have the same mileage and wear. The only exception is when the other tires are still new or if you experience a flat tire during a road trip. In that case, it's OK to replace just a single tire. But in most cases, we recommend replacing the entire set at the same time.
Are RV tire covers worth it?
Yes, RV tire covers are worth it. They can extend the life of your tires and protect your investment. It's no secret that replacing a complete set of RV tires is expensive. But it's a small price to pay to keep your family safe. Keeping your tires covered and protected while you're parked ensures they last as long as possible. Check out our in-depth article on whether or not RV tire covers are necessary to learn more about RV tire covers.
How can I prevent tire blowouts?
You can prevent RV tire blowouts by regularly inspecting your tires, ensuring they're inflated to the proper pressure, rotating them every season, and covering them with RV tire covers when parked for extended periods or during the off-season. Furthermore, you should always replace your tires when you notice signs of uneven wear, noise, or vibration while driving on them