Your RV’s tires are the only thing between you and the road. Keeping them in top shape ensures a safe, smooth ride. Neglecting tire care can lead to blowouts, poor fuel economy, and costly repairs. In Canada, weather, road conditions, and long distances add extra challenges. Proper maintenance helps prevent problems and keeps your adventures stress-free.

The Basics of RV Tire Maintenance

Why Tire Maintenance Matters

• Prevents blowouts that can cause serious accidents.
  
• Extends tire life, saving you money.
  
• Improves fuel efficiency, reducing costs.
  
• Ensures compliance with Transport Canada safety regulations.
  

How to Read RV Tire Sidewalls

Every tire has markings that provide key details:

• Size & Load Rating – Ensures your tires can handle the weight of your RV.
  
• Speed Rating – The maximum safe speed for your tires.
  
• DOT Code – Shows the tire’s manufacture date. Replace tires older than seven years, even if they look fine.
  
• Tread Depth – Must be at least 1.6 mm (2/32 inches), but replacing at 4 mm (5/32 inches) improves safety.
  

Key Tire Care Tips for Canadian RVers

1. Check Tire Pressure Regularly

Tire pressure changes with temperature. Cold weather reduces pressure, while heat increases it. Low pressure causes poor handling and overheating. High pressure leads to uneven wear and blowouts.

Best Practices:

• Check pressure before every trip and monthly during storage.
  
• Use a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) for real-time updates.
  
• Inflate to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI (found in your RV manual or on the tire sidewall).
  
• Check pressure when tires are cold for accuracy.
  

2. Inspect Tires Before Every Trip

Look for:

• Cracks & Bulges – Signs of aging or internal damage.
  
• Uneven Wear – May indicate misalignment or improper inflation.
  
• Embedded Objects – Nails or sharp debris can cause slow leaks.
  
• Dry Rot – Small cracks on the sidewalls mean the rubber is breaking down.
  

If you spot any of these, visit an RV Care dealer for a professional inspection.

3. Rotate Tires for Even Wear

Rotating tires prevents uneven tread wear, improving handling and extending lifespan.

Recommended Rotation Schedule:

• Motorhomes: Every 10,000–12,000 km.
  
• Travel Trailers & Fifth Wheels: Every 5,000–8,000 km.
  

4. Balance & Align Your Tires

Unbalanced or misaligned tires cause vibration, uneven wear, and poor handling.

Get an alignment:

• After long trips over rough roads.
  
• After storage if your RV sat for months.
  
• If your RV pulls to one side or the steering feels off.
  

5. Store Your RV Properly

Extreme cold and direct sunlight shorten tire life. If storing your RV:

• Inflate tires to recommended PSI before parking.
  
• Use tire covers to protect from UV damage.
  
• Park on plywood or rubber mats instead of bare pavement.
  
• Move the RV every few months to prevent flat spots.
  

When to Replace Your RV Tires

Signs It’s Time for New Tires:

• Tread is below 4 mm (check with a tread depth gauge).
  
• Cracks or bulges on the sidewalls.
  
• Vibrations or poor handling when driving.
  
• Uneven wear that can’t be corrected.
  

Choosing the Right Tires for Canadian Roads

• All-Season Tires: Good for most conditions but may struggle in extreme cold.
  
• Winter-Rated Tires: Provide better grip in snow and ice.
  
• Heavy-Duty Trailer Tires: Handle heavy loads and resist wear from long trips.
  

Find quality RV tires at Shop RV Care.

Common Tire Problems & How to Fix Them

Flat Tires & Blowouts

If a tire blows out:

1. Stay calm and hold the steering wheel firmly.
   
2. Let off the gas slowly—don’t brake hard.
   
3. Steer straight until you regain control.
   
4. Move to a safe area and call for help.
   

Consider roadside assistance programs like:

• RV Care’s Dealer Network for service across Canada.
  
• CAA Roadside Assistance.
  

Uneven Tire Wear

Common causes:

• Overloading – Check your RV’s weight and balance.
  
• Improper Inflation – Maintain proper PSI.
  
• Misalignment – Get checked if tires wear unevenly.
  

FAQs: Quick Answers for RV Tire Care

✅ How often should I check my RV tire pressure?
Before every trip and once a month during storage.

✅ What is the minimum tread depth for RV tires?
Transport Canada requires 1.6 mm, but 4 mm is safer.

✅ Can I use regular vehicle tires on my RV?
No, RV tires are built for higher loads and stress.

✅ Do I need nitrogen in my RV tires?
No, but nitrogen helps maintain stable pressure.

✅ Where can I buy RV tires in Canada?
Check Canadian Tire or your favourite tire store, or visit an RV Care dealer for a personalized service and the best advice.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Tire maintenance is key to safe and hassle-free RV travel. Check pressure, inspect for damage, rotate regularly, and replace old tires before they fail.

For professional tire service, visit an RV Care dealer. Ready to upgrade your RV? Browse listings on RVC Navigator. Need parts or accessories? Shop Shop RV Care for top-quality products.

Stay safe and enjoy the road ahead!