SERVICE LIFE FOR RV/MOTORHOME
TIRES
The following recommendation applies to
RV/Motorhome tires. Tires are composed of various types
of material and rubber compounds, having performance
properties essential to the proper functioning of the tire
itself. These component properties evolve over time.
For each tire, this evolution depends upon many factors
such as weather, storage conditions, and conditions of
use (load, speed, inflation pressure, maintenance, etc.)
to which the tire is subjected throughout its life. This
service-related evolution varies widely so that accurately
predicting the serviceable life of any specific tire in
advance is not possible.
That is why, in addition to regular inspections and
inflation pressure maintenance by consumers, it is
recommended to have RV/Motorhome tires, including
spare tires, inspected regularly by a qualified tire
specialist, such as a tire dealer, who will assess the
tire’s suitability for continued service. Tires that have
been in use for 5 years or more should continue to be
inspected by a specialist at least annually.
Consumers are strongly encouraged to be aware not
only of their tires’ visual conditions and inflation
pressures, but also of any changes in dynamic
performances such as increased gas loss, noise, or
vibration, which could be an indication that the tires need
to be removed from service to prevent tire failure. It is
impossible to predict when tires should be replaced based
on their calendar age alone. However, the older a tire, the
greater the chance that it will need to be replaced due to
the service-related evolution or other conditions found
upon inspection or detected during use.
While most tires will need replacement before they
achieve 10 years, it is recommended that any tires in
service 10 years or more from the date of manufacture,
including spare tires, be replaced with new tires as a
simple precaution even if such tires appear serviceable
and even if they have not reached the legal wear limit.
For tires that were on an original equipment vehicle
(i.e. acquired by the consumer on a new vehicle), follow
the vehicle manufacturer’s tire replacement
recommendations when specified (but not to exceed
10 years).
The date when a tire was manufactured is located on
the sidewall of each tire. RV owners should locate the
Department of Transportation or DOT code on the tire
that begins with DOT and ends with the week and year
of manufacture. For example, a DOT code ending with
“0304” indicates a tire made in the 3rd week (Jan) of 2004.
THE IMPORTANCE OF TIRE PRESSURE
The most important factor in maintaining the life of
MICHELIN
®
RV tires is making sure they are always
properly inflated. Incorrect pressure for the weight
of the vehicle is dangerous and could cause things like
premature wear, tire damage, or a harsher ride.
An underinflated or overloaded tire will build up more
heat that could go beyond the endurance limits of the
rubber and radial cords. This could cause sudden tire
failure. Underinflation will also cause poor handling,
faster and/or irregular tire wear, and can decrease fuel
economy.
Overinflation, on the other hand, will reduce the tire’s
contact area with the road, which reduces traction,
braking ability, and handling. A tire that’s overinflated
for the weight it’s carrying is more prone to a harsh ride,
uneven tire wear, and impact damage.
MICHELIN
®
RV Tires 1
DOT
Plant
Tire Size
Optional Code
MICHELIN
Manufacture
Date
GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT MICHELIN
®
RV TIRES
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