RV Issues - Tire and Suspension Issues

This document outlines common tire and suspension issues encountered with Recreational Vehicles (RVs) and provides guidance on maintenance and troubleshooting. Proper care of these critical components ensures a safe and comfortable travel experience.

Tire Problems

Tires are fundamental to RV safety and performance. Various issues can arise if not properly maintained.

• Underinflation: This is one of the most frequent problems, leading to increased fuel consumption, premature wear, and a higher risk of blowouts.
• Overinflation: While less common than underinflation, overinflation can also cause uneven wear, reduced traction, and a harsher ride.
• Uneven Wear:
  • Center Wear: Often indicates overinflation.
  • Shoulder Wear: Usually a sign of underinflation.
  • Feathering or Scalloping: Can point to alignment issues, worn suspension components, or improper tire rotation.
• Tire Age: Even with good tread, tires degrade over time due to UV exposure and chemical changes. RV tires, in particular, should be replaced every 5-7 years, regardless of mileage.
• Sidewall Cracks: A clear indicator of aging or dry rot, significantly increasing the risk of a blowout.
• Bubbles or Bulges: These suggest internal damage to the tire's structure and are an immediate safety concern, requiring urgent replacement.

• Regular Pressure Checks: Check tire pressure before every trip and at least once a month, using a reliable tire pressure gauge. Always inflate to the manufacturer's recommended cold pressure.
• Visual Inspections: Regularly inspect tires for any signs of damage, cracks, bulges, or embedded objects.
• Tire Rotation: Follow the RV manufacturer's recommendations for tire rotation to ensure even wear.
• Weight Distribution: Ensure your RV's weight is evenly distributed and does not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or individual tire load ratings.
• Storage: When storing your RV for extended periods, try to keep tires off direct sunlight and consider using tire covers.

Suspension Issues

The suspension system plays a crucial role in ride comfort, handling, and load bearing. Problems with suspension can lead to an uncomfortable ride and compromise safety.

• Worn Shocks or Struts: Reduced dampening can lead to excessive bouncing, swaying, and poor handling, especially over bumps.
• Leaf Spring Sag: Over time, leaf springs can lose their arch, resulting in a lower ride height, reduced load capacity, and a harsher ride.
• Air Bag Leaks: RVs with air suspension systems can develop leaks in air bags or lines, causing the RV to sag on one side or lose ride height.
• Bushings and Bearings: Worn or damaged bushings in control arms and sway bars can cause clunking noises, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
• Alignment Problems: Misaligned wheels can lead to premature tire wear, poor handling, and a steering wheel that isn't centered.

• Regular Inspections: Periodically inspect suspension components for signs of wear, damage, or leaks.
• Lubrication: Keep moving suspension parts adequately lubricated as per the manufacturer's guidelines.
• Professional Alignment: Have your RV's alignment checked by a professional, especially after hitting large potholes or making suspension repairs.
• Load Management: Avoid consistently overloading your RV beyond its Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) to prevent premature suspension wear.
• Air Suspension Checks: If your RV has an air suspension system, regularly check for air leaks and ensure the compressor is functioning correctly.

Troubleshooting Guide

Recommended Service Schedule