Motorhome tyres and load ratings the quick safety guide

Motorhome tyres do not live the same life as car tyres. While a car tyre might wear out its tread through daily commuting, a motorhome tyre is more likely to expire due to age, UV damage, or structural fatigue. They carry high static loads, sit for long periods in storage, and are then expected to perform at motorway speeds. Respect them as the only safety-critical component touching the road.

Understanding the Load Rating (Load Index)

The load index is a numerical code on the tyre sidewall that indicates the maximum weight the tyre can carry. For motorhomes, this is critical for safety. If your motorhome has a rear axle weight of 2,000kg, each tyre on that axle must have a load rating of at least 1,000kg (Index 108).

Using tyres with an insufficient load rating is dangerous and can lead to an MOT failure or roadside fine. It may also affect your insurance cover or claims; you should check your specific policy terms for details. You can use our Motorhome Weight Checker to understand your vehicle's limits before checking your tyres. Always refer to your vehicle's VIN plate (often found under the bonnet or inside the door frame) for the specific Maximum Authorised Axle Weight (MAAW).

Common Load Index Reference Table

Three Essential Checks During a Viewing

When browsing Motorhome Models or viewing a used vehicle like a Swift Elegance 565 or a Bürstner Lyseo, use this checklist to assess the rubber:

• The DOT Date Code: Look for a four-digit number in a window on the sidewall (e.g., '1224'). The first two digits are the week, the last two are the year. If the tyres are over 6 years old, they should be closely inspected or replaced regardless of how 'new' the tread looks.
• Sidewall Cracking (Dry Rot): Because motorhomes sit stationary, the rubber can lose its suppleness. Inspect the grooves and sidewalls for fine cracks or 'crazing'. This is a sign of structural failure.
• CP Marking: Check if the tyres are 'CP' rated (e.g., Michelin Agilis Camping). CP tyres are specifically engineered for motorhomes to handle higher pressures and resist flat-spotting during winter storage.

Maintenance and Storage Tips for 2026

To extend the life of your tyres, consider using tyre covers to protect against UV degradation when parked. Ensure you check pressures when the tyres are cold, as under-inflation is a leading cause of blowouts on heavy coachbuilt models like the Bailey Autograph 74 4, Auto-Trail Tribute 625, or the premium Frankia Platin. If you are converting a van, use our Campervan Conversion Checker to ensure your base vehicle's payload can handle the added weight of your build.

Winter Storage Checklist

• Increase Pressure: Some manufacturers recommend increasing pressure to the maximum permitted (found on the sidewall) during long-term storage to prevent flat-spotting.
• Move the Vehicle: If possible, move the motorhome slightly every few weeks to change the contact patch.
• Clean the Rubber: Wash off road salt and grime, but avoid petroleum-based tyre 'shine' products which can accelerate rubber degradation.

Buyer Tactic: The 'Tyre Age' Negotiation

If you are viewing a used motorhome and find the tyres are over five years old or show signs of perishing, use this as a primary negotiation point. A full set of high-quality CP-rated tyres can be a significant investment. It is one of the most sensible costs you can bring forward to ensure your first trip is a safe one. This is particularly relevant when looking at older Auto-Sleepers or Bessacarr models where the mileage might be low but the tyres are aged.

Frequently Asked Questions