I'm dealing with a tire age versus condition dilemma on my motorhome. The unit has six tires with 2018 DOT date codes, making them 7 years old as of 2025. Mileage is approximately 28,000 miles, and visual inspection shows good tread depth with no apparent cracking, bulging, or other visible deterioration.
A tire technician who performed my state inspection indicated the tires appear serviceable from an external assessment standpoint. However, I understand there may be internal degradation factors not visible during standard inspection procedures.
What is the technical consensus on replacement timing for RV tires when age limits are reached but visible condition remains acceptable? Specifically looking for guidance on the 6-7 year replacement interval and whether internal rubber compound deterioration poses legitimate safety risks regardless of external appearance.
Replace RV tires at 6-7 years regardless of tread condition. Internal rubber degradation is not visible but increases blowout risk. At 7 years with 2018 DOT codes, your tires should be replaced before extended travel.
Eugene, your 2018-manufactured tires on your 2020 motorhome are indeed at the critical 7-year mark where safety becomes a serious concern, regardless of their visual appearance or your 28K mileage. While your tire dealer is correct that they look good externally, RV tires face unique stresses from weight, UV exposure, and often extended periods of non-use that cause internal degradation invisible from the outside. For casual RV use like yours, I strongly recommend replacing all six tires now - the risk of a catastrophic blowout far outweighs the cost savings of waiting longer.
RV tires age differently than passenger car tires due to several critical factors. The constant heavy load of a motorhome causes continuous stress on the tire structure, even when parked. UV radiation from sun exposure breaks down rubber compounds over time, creating microscopic cracks that weaken the tire from within. Your motorhome likely sits stationary for extended periods, causing flat spots and uneven stress distribution that accelerates aging.
The seven-year timeframe isn't arbitrary - it's based on extensive testing showing that rubber compounds begin significant deterioration around this age, regardless of tread depth or visual appearance. Internal belt separation, sidewall weakness, and sudden tread separation become exponentially more likely after seven years. With your 28K miles over four years of ownership, you've averaged about 7,000 miles annually, which means these tires have spent far more time aging than wearing down through normal use.
Temperature cycling from seasonal storage and varying climates also contributes to tire aging. The combination of weight, time, and environmental factors creates a perfect storm for tire failure that external inspections simply cannot detect reliably.
Before shopping for replacement tires, gather your current tire specifications from the sidewall markings. You'll need the size (likely something like 275/70R22.5 or similar), load rating, and speed rating. Check your motorhome's door jamb sticker or manual for the exact specifications and required tire pressure. Document which position each current tire is in and take photos of any unusual wear patterns - this information will help identify potential alignment or suspension issues.
Research RV-specific tire dealers in your area, as regular tire shops often don't stock or understand motorhome tire requirements. Get quotes from at least three sources, including mobile tire services that can come to your location. Factor in mounting, balancing, disposal fees, and whether you need new valve stems (recommended with tire replacement). Budget approximately $2,400-$4,000 for a complete six-tire replacement depending on your tire size and brand choice.
Consider your replacement timing carefully - avoid peak travel seasons when tire availability might be limited and prices higher. Plan the replacement for when you'll be home for several days, as some services may need to order tires. If you must travel before replacement, keep speeds moderate, check tire pressure frequently, and avoid long driving days in hot weather.
Start by choosing appropriate replacement tires designed for RV use. Brands like Michelin XRV, Goodyear G614 RST, or Bridgestone R250F are proven performers for motorhomes. Don't simply replace with the cheapest option - quality RV tires are a critical safety investment. Ensure the new tires match your motorhome's weight requirements and are manufactured recently (ideally within the past year).
Schedule replacement with a reputable RV tire service. Many offer mobile installation at your location, which is convenient and eliminates the need to drive on aging tires to a shop. The installation process should include removing all six tires, inspecting wheels for damage or corrosion, installing new valve stems, mounting and balancing new tires, and setting proper pressure according to your motorhome's weight distribution.
During installation, have the technician inspect suspension components for wear and check wheel alignment if equipment is available. Request that they dispose of old tires properly and provide you with documentation showing the new tires' manufacture dates. Ensure all tires are inflated to the correct pressure for your specific axle weights - this may require weighing your loaded motorhome at a truck scale.
After installation, plan a short test drive to verify proper installation and handling. Check tire pressures again after the first 50-100 miles, as new tires may settle slightly. Establish a regular inspection routine going forward, checking pressures monthly and visually inspecting for damage before each trip.
This tire replacement absolutely requires professional installation due to the specialized equipment needed for large RV tires and wheels. Attempting DIY installation risks injury and improper mounting that could cause catastrophic failure. Professional RV tire services have the heavy-duty equipment to handle your motorhome's wheel and tire combinations safely.
Consider having a professional RV service center perform a complete chassis inspection concurrent with tire replacement. They can identify alignment issues, suspension wear, or brake problems that might affect your new tires' lifespan. If you discover uneven wear patterns on your old tires, professional diagnosis is essential to prevent premature new tire damage.
Mobile tire services are often the best option for motorhome tire replacement, as they eliminate the risk of driving on aged tires to reach a shop. These specialists understand RV-specific requirements and typically stock appropriate tires. Professional installation also includes proper balancing, which is crucial for motorhome comfort and tire longevity, and they'll ensure correct pressure settings based on your actual axle weights rather than generic recommendations.
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