theruggednerdHey RVers!
Are you ready for your next road trip? Before you kick those tires, fire up the engine and hop on the highway, it’s important to make sure your tires are in good condition. Not only will proper maintenance keep you and your family safe on the road, it will also help extend the life of your tires and save you money in the long run. At and average $100 per tire, it can add up quick needing to replace them prematurely!
Let me caveat these tips with this important point: Good tires are like good shoes: you’ve probably bought a cheap pair in the store, got ’em home and on, and they weren’t comfortable and/or wore out easy. The same goes for tires, they aren’t something to just grab the cheapest you can find. Do your research and look for solid quality AND good pricing.
As you research, be sure to take into consideration your RV Class, weight, anticipated road conditions, price, and consumer reviews. There are dozens and brands each with dozens of options.
Full disclosure, we have Goodyear Endurance tires with nitrogen gas on our 25-foot Forest River MicroLite Travel Trailer. We went with them based on other forums’ reviews and recommendations from a friend that has owned RVs for years and used various brands’ tires.
With all this in mind, let’s get started with these important steps for maintaining your RV tires to keep them in top shape.
Step 1: Check the Pressure
Before hitting the road, make sure to check the pressure in your tires. Overinflated or underinflated tires can lead to poor handling and increased wear and tear on the tires. It’s recommended to check the pressure at least once a month and before any long trips.
Step 2: Inspect the Tires
Take a close look at your tires for any cuts, cracks, or signs of abnormal wear. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to get your tires inspected by a professional. Driving on worn or damaged tires can be dangerous and can lead to a blowout on the road.
Step 3: Rotate Your Tires
Rotating your tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles will help ensure even wear and extend the life of your tires. I would HIGHLY recommend logging your mileage for your trips, or keeping track using an app. It will keep you honest about how many miles you’ve actually put on your rig. Make sure to consult your RV manual or a professional for the proper tire rotation pattern for your travel trailer.
Step 4: Keep Tires Covered
When your travel trailer is not in use, make sure to keep the tires covered with a tire cover to protect them from the elements. Sun exposure, extreme temperatures, and moisture can all contribute to tire wear and damage. Extreme heat and dry conditions, especially paired with direct sunlight, can cause dry rot in a relatively short amount of time.
Step 5: Store Tires Properly
When storing your travel trailer, make sure to store the tires on level ground and out of direct sunlight. Storing your tires properly will help reduce the amount of wear and tear on the tires and keep them in good condition for your next road trip.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your RV or travel trailer tires are in good condition and ready for your next adventure. So, kick… I mean “check” your tires, pack up the family, and hit the road… travel safely!
Do you have any tips for maintaining your travel trailer tires? Let us know in the comments below!