A motorhome may cover only a few thousand miles a year, but it stands for weeks or months at a time. During that time the weight sits on one area of each tyre, sunlight and weather attack the rubber, and pressure drops slowly. These conditions make motorhome tyres a special case.
Age is the hidden issue
Tyres have a date code on the sidewall in the form DOT followed by letters and a four-digit number. The four digits show the week and year of manufacture; 2123 means week 21 of 2023. Rubber compounds harden and crack over time, even without use. Many tyre and vehicle makers advise having tyres inspected regularly once they are around five years old and considering replacement at about ten years regardless of tread. Check your vehicle manufacturer's guidance. See our DOT code guide.
Do not forget the spare. An old spare wheel is often the oldest tyre on the vehicle.
Check cracking and sidewall condition
Look for fine cracks across the sidewall and between the tread blocks, a sign of ageing and ozone attack. Cracking that is deep enough to expose cord means the tyre must be replaced. Inspect all sidewalls, including inner ones where possible. Also see tyre bulge in the sidewall.
Commercial-style tyres and pressures
Many motorhomes built on van chassis use commercial tyres marked with a C, and carry a high load for their size. The pressure needed is typically higher than a car and depends on the axle weight. Your handbook or the manufacturer's information gives the figure; a weighbridge visit helps owners who have added gear. Check pressure when the tyres are cold, and every time before a trip. Our van tyre guide explains the C marking, and load index helps you match tyre ratings to the weight.
Preparing for a trip
- Check pressures on all tyres including the spare.
- Inspect sidewalls and tread for cracks, cuts and uneven wear.
- Check valve caps and look for valve damage.
- Confirm wheel nuts are tight and torqued to the specified figure.
- Consider the load: do not exceed the axle and gross weight limits.
Storing the motorhome
If the vehicle will sit for a long time, inflate the tyres to the recommended pressure, or slightly above if your handbook allows, and move the vehicle occasionally so the weight does not stay on one patch. Keep tyres out of direct sunlight where possible, using covers.
Mobile fitting at home or on site
Getting a motorhome to a garage can be a hassle, especially with height and length restrictions. A mobile technician can attend at your home, storage site or campsite pitch if the location is accessible and safe. Our mobile tyre fitting and emergency tyre fitting pages describe the service. For a flat on the road, read what to do after a puncture.
Because tyre sizes and load ratings vary widely between motorhomes, have the full size and load index from the sidewall ready when you call. If you are not sure whether we can attend a particular site, ask. We cover areas such as Reading, Bristol, Leeds and Glasgow; see the areas page. Call now for a quote on 0800 772 0355 or book now.
Twin rear wheels
Some motorhomes carry twin wheels at the rear. A puncture in the inner tyre may not be obvious, so check both tyres. Stones can also lodge between twin tyres and cause damage. Mention twin fitment when you call so the right equipment is brought.
Weight, loading and sudden failures
Motorhomes are frequently run close to their maximum permitted weight once water, gas, bikes, awnings and holiday luggage are loaded. Tyres on an overloaded motorhome run hotter and are more prone to sudden failures, particularly in warm weather on motorways. Do not guess: visit a weighbridge if you are unsure, then compare the axle figures with the vehicle plate and the tyre load ratings.
If a tyre does fail, the consequences on a heavy vehicle can be severe, including damage to bodywork, wheel arches and pipework behind the wheel. Read our blowout guide for roadside safety steps. For smaller issues like a leaking valve see leaking tyre valve.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is too old for motorhome tyres?
There is no single legal limit, but many makers advise inspections from around five years and replacement near ten. Follow your manufacturer's guidance.
Where do I find the tyre age?
On the sidewall after the letters DOT; the last four digits give the week and year.
Can you fit tyres at a campsite?
Where access and safety allow, yes. Call now for a quote on 0800 772 0355.
Should I replace all tyres at once?
Often sensible if they are the same age, but ask the fitter.
Related Help
Need help with your tyres now?
Call now for a quote, or book now online. Phone 0800 772 0355.