How to change an RV tire: a step-by-step guide

Why Every RVer Should Know How To Handle a Tire Change

RV travel is all about freedom, the kind that lets you wake up to ocean views one day and crisp mountain air the next. But there’s one thing that can throw a wrench in your adventure faster than a wrong turn: a flat tire in the middle of nowhere. And unlike a car, changing a tire on an RV isn’t something you can always wing with a jack from the trunk and a quick YouTube search. It takes the right tools, a bit of know-how, and a steady hand.

Whether you’re a full-timer, a weekend warrior, or somewhere in between, knowing how to change an RV tire is one of the most practical ways to build confidence on the road. This guide isn’t just for those who plan to DIY every repair but for any RVer who wants to be prepared. Because sometimes you’re in a spot where help is hours away, and you’re your own best shot.

Let’s walk through everything you need to know about recognizing when it’s time to change a tire, doing it safely and efficiently, and avoiding mistakes that could turn a simple fix into a roadside nightmare.

Signs You Need To Change an RV Tire

Just because your RV is rolling smoothly today doesn’t mean your tires are ready for tomorrow. Tire failure doesn’t always come with a dramatic blowout or loud warning signs. It often starts quietly, with subtle cues that are easy to miss if you’re not looking for them.

Spotting these early indicators isn’t just about extending the life of your tires; it’s about keeping your trip (and your family) safe. Whether you’re prepping for a drive or parked at your campsite, a quick tire check is always worth the time. Here’s what you need to look for:

• Visible Damage: Keep an eye out for deep cuts, bulges, cracks, or weather checking on the sidewalls or tread. These aren’t just cosmetic issues; each one could indicate structural weakness. A bulge, for instance, may mean the inner cords have snapped, which could lead to a catastrophic failure under load.
• Uneven Wear: If the tire tread is thinner on one edge, cupped, or feathered, it could signal a suspension issue or improper inflation. It’s not just the worn tire that’s at risk; you could be putting uneven stress on the axle or frame, which affects your RV’s handling and safety at highway speeds.
• Low Tread Depth: Tire tread allows your RV to safely grip the road, especially in wet conditions. If you can stick a penny into the tread and see the top of Lincoln’s head, you’ve got less than 2/32” depth, which means it’s time to replace. Worn tread means a longer stopping distance and a higher risk of hydroplaning.
• Repeated Low Pressure: If you’re topping off the same tire week after week, something’s wrong. You might be dealing with a puncture, a leaking valve stem, or a damaged bead seal. Even if you can’t spot a nail or gash, persistent pressure loss often means slow internal damage that weakens the tire over time.
• Aging Tires: RV tires often “age out” before they wear out. That’s because RVs sit still for long stretches, allowing UV damage, temperature changes, and sidewall drying to take their toll. Check the tire’s DOT code for its manufacture date. Anything over 5-7 years old (even if it looks “like new”) should be professionally inspected or replaced.

What You’ll Need: Tools and Equipment Checklist

Changing a tire on an RV isn’t like doing it on your hatchback. You’re dealing with a much larger and heavier vehicle, so having the right gear matters.

Must-Have Tools:

• Spare Tire: Make sure it matches your RV’s load rating and size. Even if you don’t plan to change the tire yourself, having a properly inflated spare on board is crucial—most roadside assistance providers require a usable spare to perform a tire replacement.
• RV-Rated Hydraulic Jack: Don’t use a car jack. RVs need heavy-duty, stable jacks designed for their weight.
• Lug Wrench or Breaker Bar: Choose one long enough to give you the leverage needed to loosen tight lug nuts.
• Wheel Chocks: To prevent your RV from rolling during the tire change.
• Torque Wrench: For properly tightening lug nuts to manufacturer specs.
• Reflective Safety Vest: Essential for staying visible and safe, especially if you’re working roadside.

Nice-to-Have Extras:

• Tire Pressure Gauge: Handy for checking the spare before and after mounting.
• Flashlight or Headlamp: A must if you’re working in low light or at night.
• Knee Pad or Mat: Makes kneeling on the ground or pavement more comfortable.
• Tire Blocks or Leveling Ramps: Helpful for extra stability on uneven ground.

Safety First: Preparing Your RV for the Tire Change

Before you grab your tools, make sure the scene is safe. Tire changes can be dangerous if the RV isn’t properly secured or if you’re on a busy road. Take a few minutes to set up safely. It’s worth it!

1. Find a Safe Spot: Get as far from traffic as you can. Choose a flat, solid surface – never soft or uneven ground.
2. Turn On Hazard Lights: Make yourself visible to oncoming traffic.
3. Engage the Parking Brake: Always apply the break before exiting the RV.
4. Place Wheel Chocks: Block the wheels on the opposite side of the flat so the RV doesn’t roll.
5. Unload Passengers: Especially in travel trailers, removing people reduces bounce and overall weight, making the process safer.

If you’re in an unsafe spot – like a narrow shoulder, near heavy traffic, or on uneven terrain – don’t risk it. It’s best to call for professional help, through a provider like Good Sam, right away.

Step-by-Step Guide To Changing an RV Tire

Once you’ve confirmed it’s time for a tire swap and your tools and safety steps are in place, it’s time to roll up your sleeves. Changing an RV tire might sound intimidating, especially given the size and weight of the vehicle, but with the right approach, it’s entirely doable, even for first-timers. The key is staying calm, methodical, and patient.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to help you do it safely and correctly:

1. Secure the RV

• Before starting, double-check that the RV is on stable, level ground.
• Chock the wheels on the opposite side of the flat tire to prevent rolling.
• Engage the parking brake and make sure the vehicle is fully stable.

2. Loosen the Lug Nuts

• Use your lug wrench to loosen – but not fully remove – the nuts.
• Work in a star or crisscross pattern to avoid warping the wheel.
• Pro tip: It may take some serious elbow grease. If stuck, gently bounce your weight on the wrench to help break it free.

3. Jack Up the RV

• Consult your owner’s manual to find the correct jack point near the tire.
• Raise the RV slowly until the flat tire is just off the ground.
• Never crawl under the RV while it’s on the jack alone.

Roadside professionals have specialized tools to handle complex or high-clearance RV tire changes. If your setup makes safe access difficult, call your provider instead.

4. Remove the Flat Tire

• Now, completely remove the lug nuts and set them aside.
• Pull off the flat tire and lay it flat under the RV as a safety precaution.

5. Mount the Spare Tire

• Align the holes and slide the spare tire onto the bolts.
• Tighten the lug nuts by hand in the same star pattern to seat the wheel evenly.

6. Lower the RV

• Carefully lower the RV until the tire touches the ground.
• Once it supports the vehicle’s weight, remove the jack.

7. Fully Tighten the Lug Nuts with a Torque Wrench

• Use your torque wrench to finish tightening the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern.
• Follow your RV manual’s torque specifications – usually between 100-150 lb-ft.

8. Double-Check Pressure and Clean Up

• Use a tire pressure gauge to confirm the spare is properly inflated.
• Store your tools, stow the flat tire, and remove any safety equipment or chocks once you’re fully done.

Post-Change Tips: You’re Not Done Yet

Swapping the tire gets you back on the road, but a few simple follow-up steps can make the difference between a smooth ride and a risky one. Here’s how to finish the job properly and prevent future trouble:

• Check Tire Pressure (Again): Even if you aired up the spare beforehand, always double-check once it’s mounted. A tire sitting in storage may have lost pressure, and driving on an underinflated spare can damage the tire or your axle, especially on longer drives.
• Drive Cautiously for the First Few Miles: Spare tires, especially smaller temporary ones, are not always built for highway speeds. Stick to moderate speeds (ideally under 55 mph), avoid sudden braking, and listen for any unusual sounds or vibrations that may indicate an installation issue.
• Retorque the Lug Nuts After 50-100 Miles: This is a step many RVers forget. After driving a bit, the lug nuts can settle or shift slightly, especially on larger wheels. Use your torque wrench to re-tighten them to the manufacturer’s specs. It’s a five-minute step that could prevent a wheel from coming loose at highway speed.
• Inspect the Other Tires: If one tire fails due to age or wear, others might be close behind. Take a moment to visually inspect your remaining tires for uneven tread, cracks, or bulging. Preventive action here could save you another roadside hassle down the line.
• Clean and Stow Your Tools: Don’t forget to return the jack, chocks, wrench, gloves, and any mats or accessories to their proper place. Keeping your emergency gear organized means you’ll be ready the next time you need it – hopefully not anytime soon.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to overlook a detail when you’re dealing with a flat tire on the side of the road. After all, you’re likely tired, flustered, or racing daylight. That’s exactly when small oversights can turn into big safety risks or expensive damage.

Here are some of the most common RV tire change mistakes and how to steer clear of them:

• Skipping Chocks: Wheel chocks aren’t optional. Without them, your RV could roll, especially on uneven or sloped surfaces.
• Using the Wrong Jack: Car jacks aren’t designed for RVs and may collapse under the weight. Always use a heavy-duty jack rated for your RV’s size and load.
• Tightening Lug Nuts Before Lowering: Always torque lug nuts with weight on the tire. Tightening them while the RV is still on the jack can lead to uneven torque and unsafe wheel seating.
• Forgetting to Retorque Later: This is one of the most overlooked steps and a major cause of wheel separation incidents. Always recheck lug nut torque after driving 50-100 miles.

And if you’re ever unsure, or missing the right tools, don’t risk it – this is exactly the time to call in the roadside professionals like Good Sam.

When To Call for Help Instead

Even the most prepared RVers can run into trouble that’s beyond a safe DIY fix. It’s time to call for professional help if:

• The flat occurred in a dangerous location, like a shoulderless road, blind curve, or highway curve.
• The tire is shredded, or the rim is damaged.
• You’re dealing with dual rear tires or complicated alignment with limited access to the tire.
• You’re missing essential tools, or the jack doesn’t fit your RV properly.

In these cases, having a reliable roadside assistance plan from a provider like Good Sam can save you from hours of frustration or – worse – potential injury or damage. When in doubt, it’s better to play it safe and call in the professionals.

Preventive Maintenance Tips

Want to lower your chances of dealing with a roadside tire change? A little preventive care can go a long way:

• Inspect Your Tires Monthly: Look for visible damage, sidewall cracks, or low tread. Catching issues early can prevent blowouts later.
• Monitor Air Pressure Weekly on Trips: Especially before long driving days. Proper inflation helps prevent overheating and uneven wear.
• Rotate Tires Regularly: This evens out tread wear and helps extend the life of your tires.
• Check Tire Age: Even if they look fine, rubber breaks down over time. Replace tires that are more than 5-7 years old.
• Carry a Tire Repair Kit: It’s a quick fix for slow leaks or small punctures.

Peaceful RV Travel Is Just a Tire Change Away

Changing an RV tire is completely manageable with the right prep and a calm, step-by-step approach. Whether you’re parked at a campground or stranded between small towns on a lonely stretch of highway, knowing what to do can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress.

But preparation means more than just having the right tools. It also means having a backup when you need it. That’s where roadside coverage like Good Sam’s roadside assistance plans come in, offering peace of mind wherever the road takes you. Compare Good Sam’s RV roadside assistance plans to find the one best suited for your travel needs so you can focus on enjoying the journey.