Before you start
Read the motorhome or tow vehicle owner's manual and any trailer, hitch, tire and brake-controller manuals. Check vehicle labels and make a walk-around inspection. Road, weather and legal requirements may change along a multi-province trip.
Step-by-step guide
1 Step 1
Read tire size, load rating and vehicle placard; confirm installed tires meet manufacturer requirements.
2 Step 2
Measure cold inflation pressure before travel using a reliable gauge; use the specified pressure guidance for your vehicle and actual load.
3 Step 3
Inspect sidewalls and tread for cuts, bulges, embedded objects and uneven wear.
4 Step 4
Check valve stems, caps and dual-wheel clearance; never reach between hot dual tires.
5 Step 5
Verify lug-nut torque only using the wheel manufacturer’s procedure and appropriate tool.
6 Step 6
Confirm axle weights do not exceed ratings; avoid overloading even if tire pressure appears correct.
7 Step 7
Check tires at stops for visible damage or unusual heat without touching suspect hot components.
Common problems and troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible cause | Safer next action |
|---|---|---|
| Uneven shoulder wear | Inflation or alignment issue | Check cold pressure and have alignment/suspension inspected |
| Sidewall cracking | Age, weathering or damage | Have a tire professional assess and replace as required |
| Repeated low pressure | Leak, valve or rim issue | Repair before highway use; do not simply keep adding air |
Canadian considerations
Canadian seasonal conditions include large temperature swings. Recheck cold pressures as temperatures change; tire sidewall maximum pressure is not a universal recommended setting.
Before a trip, check the applicable provincial or territorial transportation authority for licence, dimensions, towing equipment and seasonal road rules. Posted signs and current official notices take priority over general online guides.
Pre-departure checklist
- Confirm vehicle and trailer weights, ratings and tire condition.
- Check lights, mirrors, hitch or cargo security, and emergency equipment.
- Review weather, construction, road restrictions and fuel stops.
- Allow extra time and a safe place to stop if conditions deteriorate.
- Have a passenger or spotter help only when they can remain in a safe location.
Official resources
These links are useful starting points; check the specific page and date for current requirements.
- Transport Canada — road safety
- British Columbia driver licensing
- Ontario Driver’s Handbook
- DriveBC road conditions
- 511 Alberta
Related RV guides
Tire care in Canadian climates
Check cold-tire pressures against the placard or the tire maker’s load table, inspect sidewalls for cracks, and check the date code, since tires age out even if the tread looks good. Pressure falls in cold weather, so recheck after temperature drops.
Tire checks
- Measure pressure when tires are cold, at the pressure given in the tire maker’s load table.
- Inspect sidewalls and tread for cracks, bulges and uneven wear.
- Read the date code; manufacturers commonly recommend replacing tires well before ten years of age, and many owners replace sooner.
- Carry a pressure gauge, jack and the right wrench.
- Check the spare too.
How often should I check tire pressure?
Before every trip and whenever temperatures change a lot. Cold weather lowers pressure noticeably.