Winterizing RV tires doesn’t have to be complicated—or expensive. Forget the myths about jacking up your rig for months on end. With a few smart steps, your tires will be ready to roll when spring arrives.
Simple steps for winterizing RV tires
Start with a good inspection. Before parking for the season, check for cracks, bulges, or uneven tread. Remove any small stones or debris wedged in the grooves. A few minutes of attention now can prevent surprises later.
Next, clean and dry the tires. Wash away road grime, oil, and salt. Moisture and chemicals can speed up rubber aging, so let the tires dry completely before covering.
Keep them at the recommended inflation pressure—not overinflated. Proper air pressure is your best defense against temporary flat spots and sidewall stress.
When it’s time to park, choose a solid, dry surface. Dirt, grass, or gravel hold moisture that can damage rubber over time. Instead, roll onto wood planks, metal sheets, or rubber mats if the RV will sit outside for months.
Don’t forget tire covers. Sunlight and ozone cause far more harm than sitting still ever will. Use white or light-colored covers to reflect UV rays. If you’re improvising, white plastic bags can work, but they trap moisture—so real covers are worth the few extra bucks.
Don’t fall for the “take the weight off” myth
And about those flat spots? They’re not the big bad wolf. RV tires are designed for long-term load-bearing. As long as they’re inflated and in good shape, they won’t suffer lasting damage. Any minor flattening disappears after driving a few miles. Jacking up your RV just to “save the tires” usually isn’t needed—and can even stress the frame if not done properly.
If you can, move the RV a few feet once or twice during storage. It’s optional but helps redistribute weight.
Before spring trips, give the tires one more inspection and confirm inflation. A little prep and care beat myths every time.
Learn more
For more in-depth guidance on tire care and storage, check out these trusted sources:
• Goodyear RV Tire Care & Maintenance Guide
Expert advice from Goodyear on inspection, inflation, and long-term storage.
• Michelin RV Tire Guide
Detailed tips on tire load, temperature, and maintenance for RV owners.
• Tire Industry Association
Professional standards for tire safety, care, and service practices.
• RV Safety & Education Foundation (RVSEF)
Independent organization dedicated to RV weight and tire safety education.
•FMCA Tire Care Tips
Practical, field-tested tire maintenance advice from seasoned RVers.
• Tire expert Roger Marble
Hundreds of posts about tires from Roger Marble at RVtravel.com.
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RVT1233
Horse stall mats are great for placing under your tires. They are easily cut to size with a utility knife.
We store ours on long treated boards covered with rubber mats. The boards keep the tires out of the water and off the ground and the mats are the same material as the tires.
I put handles on the boards to make them easier to move and position.
One more thing. After the tries are clean and dry, spray them with 303 Protectant. It’s a water based product and will not harm the rubber and has UV inhibitors.
Do not use the tire shine products. They may contain petroleum products which actually will harm the rubber.
Been using 303 for 7 yrs.
works great!
wash them, dry them and apply. Then cover!