Preparing Your Caravan or Motorhome Tyres for Summer Adventures

As the days get longer and the weather warms up, many of us start planning our summer getaways. Before you hitch up the caravan or pack up the motorhome, it is crucial to ensure your tyres are safe and ready for the journey.

Check the Tyre Age

Caravan and motorhome tyres often age out before they wear out. Even if they have plenty of tread, the rubber degrades over time, especially when parked for long periods. Look for the DOT code on the sidewall. The last four digits show the week and year of manufacture. We strongly recommend replacing leisure vehicle tyres every five to seven years, regardless of tread depth.

Look for Cracking and Perishing

Standing in one spot over the winter can cause tyres to perish. Inspect the sidewalls and between the tread blocks for fine cracks. This perishing is a sign that the rubber has lost its flexibility and is no longer safe to bear the weight of your vehicle on the motorway.

Check the Tyre Pressure

Correct tyre pressure is vital for the stability of your caravan or motorhome. Check your owner manual for the recommended pressures, which are often much higher than standard car tyres. Remember to check the pressures when the tyres are cold, before you set off on your trip.

Consider Commercial or Specialised Tyres

Leisure vehicles are heavy, and standard car tyres are usually not up to the job. You need tyres with the correct load rating, often marked with a C for commercial or specifically designed for caravans. Using the wrong tyres can lead to a dangerous blowout at high speed.

Book a Pre Trip Check

If you are unsure about the condition of your caravan or motorhome tyres, our mobile fitting team can come to your driveway or storage facility. We can inspect your tyres and replace them if necessary, saving you the hassle of towing the vehicle to a garage.