How to Select RV Tires

Many of the other items on an RV get attention, but none is more important than the tires. They are critical to both safety and performance. When it is time to replace the tires on your RV, there are a few factors that you'll want to consider.

Instructions

1. Determine the right size tires for your RV. Check the owner's manual of your vehicle to locate these specifications or look for the lettering on the sidewall of the original factory tires. You may also visit a tire shop and have a professional look up the make and model of your RV, and the recommended tires for it.

2. Select tires that have the letters "RV" in the tire code. This means that the tires are specifically designed to be used with recreational vehicles. Some RVs may be able to safely use light truck tires (these codes begin with "LT"); check your owner's manual or with the manufacturer.

3. Consider the driving conditions that you will most often face in driving your RV. Take a look also at the extreme conditions that you encounter a few times each year. For example, you may need a tire that can handle mud and snow. Select tires with tread patterns that are designed for these conditions.

4. Determine the load range the tire should have. This is indicative of how heavy a load the tire is capable of safely handling, and can also be found in the owner's manual.

5. Narrow down your list of possible tire choices by evaluating the criteria in the above steps, and then look at the manufacturer's claims for durability of these tires. Tires are usually rated by a description of the expected number of miles you can get from the tire. For example; a 30,000 mile tire is supposed to last longer than a 20,000 mile tire.

6. Compare the prices of the tires on your short list. Consider price along with the durability and features of the tires, and then buy the one that gives you the best value.

Tips & Warnings

• Check your air tire pressure "cold" (before driving the vehicle), and keep in mind that both heat and altitude will affect the pressure.

References

• Important RV tire safety tips

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• DIY RV Tire Care Tips Published