Motorhome & Caravan Tyre Safety: Inspection, Pressures & Replacement

What This Is

Tyre failure is one of the most dangerous incidents that can occur on a motorhome or caravan. This guide covers everything you need to know to keep your tyres safe.

Tools & Parts Required

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1

   Check the DOT code on each tyre sidewall. The last four digits indicate week and year of manufacture — e.g. '2319' means week 23 of 2019. Caravan tyres: replace at 5 years. Motorhome tyres: replace at 7 years. Many tyre failures are caused by old, visually perfect tyres that have degraded internally.

2. 2

   Check tread depth with a gauge at multiple points around the tyre and across its width. Legal minimum is 1.6mm, but replace at 3mm for motorhomes and caravans — stopping distances increase dramatically below this level.

3. 3

   Inspect each tyre for: cracks in the sidewall (replace immediately), bulges or deformations (do not drive on), cuts or embedded objects, and uneven wear patterns (indicates alignment or inflation issues).

4. 4

   Check pressures cold — before driving or after 3 hours standing. Use the motorhome manufacturer's recommended pressures from the handbook or door jamb sticker, not the base vehicle figures. Motorhomes are often significantly heavier than the base vehicle's standard pressures allow.

5. 5

   Verify the tyre load index meets or exceeds the vehicle's maximum axle load divided by two. For caravans, 'C' (commercial) rated tyres are mandatory on many models — check your handbook.

6. 6

   Check the spare tyre pressure and condition. Many motorhomes carry a space-saver spare with a maximum speed of 50mph — know your spare's limitations before you need it.

7. 7

   After any wheel removal, re-torque wheel nuts to the manufacturer's specification after 50 miles. Fiat Ducato: 120Nm. Use a calibrated torque wrench — never rely on feel. Check again after a further 200 miles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Safety Warnings

When to Call a Professional