Which tires are China bombs? When you're cruising down the interstate at 75 mph and suddenly experience a catastrophic blowout, this question becomes terrifyingly important. These dangerous tires earned their notorious reputation from Westlake tires manufactured during 2018-2019 that failed at alarming rates.
Blowouts don't just leave you stranded on busy highways. They can destroy your travel trailer's undercarriage, tear out plumbing systems, and create dangerous gas leaks that put your family at serious risk. A single tire failure can cause thousands of dollars in damage beyond just the tire itself.
The real problem with these so-called China bomb tires isn't just where they're made. These tires simply can't handle the loads they claim to support. When it comes to tire selection, the load range letter makes all the difference. Higher letter ratings mean greater weight capacity and typically indicate better manufacturing quality.
At Performance Plus Tire, we understand that your safety depends on those contact points between your vehicle and the road. That's why we've put together this essential guide to help you identify potentially dangerous tires, understand critical load ratings, and find safer alternatives that will keep you and your family protected on every journey.
The term "China bombs" has exploded across RV forums and trailer communities in recent years. Understanding what these tires actually are, why they've earned such a dangerous reputation, and sorting fact from fiction helps you make smarter tire safety decisions.
"China bombs" is the nickname RV enthusiasts and trailer owners use to describe tires manufactured in China that are prone to catastrophic failure. This term started in online communities where RVers shared horror stories of tire blowouts and failures. The nickname spread like wildfire across Facebook groups, YouTube channels, and RV forums where owners discuss tire safety concerns.
These tires are typically the cheapest options available that RV manufacturers install to keep costs down. Many vehicle owners only discover problems with these tires after experiencing failures on the road. As one RV owner put it after inspecting his own tires, "I was skeptical and kind of laughed at the term China bomb because I wasn't a real believer, but after inspecting my own tires now, I'm a believer".
China bomb tires specifically refer to low-cost ST (Special Trailer) tires with minimal load ratings. These often use nylon or polyester plies instead of the steel belts found in higher-quality tires. Brands frequently mentioned in this category include Westlake, Telluride, Compass, YKS, Autogreen, Geostar, Goodride, Triangle, and others manufactured in China.
The main concern with these tires centers around manufacturing quality and safety issues. U.S. authorities once urged a recall of up to 450,000 Chinese-made tires that lacked a critical safety feature—a rubber layer called a "gum strip" that strengthens the tire. This problem came to light after a lawsuit following fatalities in Pennsylvania allegedly caused by tire failure.
These tires suffer from numerous performance problems according to owners and reviewers:
Delamination: Complete tread separation occurs at highway speeds. As one expert explained, "These tires get hotter and hotter until they find a failure point... as that rubber reaches a certain temperature it starts to delaminate".
Poor grip and handling: Reviewers note these tires have "poor grip, even on a dry road" with conditions getting much worse on wet surfaces.
Premature wear: Extremely short lifespans plague these tires, with some becoming "bald within six months" or failing to last even 10,000-20,000 miles.
Structural issues: Users report feeling "humps" in the tire indicating belt separation beginning, vibrations at highway speeds, and uneven wear patterns.
When these tires fail at highway speeds, the consequences go far beyond inconvenience. RV tire failures can be catastrophic—causing significant damage to the undercarriage, potentially tearing out plumbing, creating gas leaks, or leading to accidents.
Significant debate exists about whether the "China bomb" label is fair or accurate. Several misconceptions need clarification:
First, the vast majority of OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) tires on RVs today are manufactured in China. Statistically, most tire failures would involve Chinese-made tires simply because of their market dominance. One forum contributor noted, "China dominates the GLOBAL market for tires", suggesting the issue goes deeper than country of origin alone.
Second, tire failures often result from multiple factors beyond manufacturing origin. Underinflation, excessive speed, heat buildup, and improper load ratings contribute significantly to failures. Critics of the "China bomb" narrative argue, "It doesn't take much thought to figure out that if RV manufacturers put marginally-rated, lowest-cost bid US-made tires on RVs, then we would be talking about Ameri-bombs instead".
Third, quality control varies tremendously between manufacturers regardless of location. As one expert noted, "The issue of Chinese construction is that it's up to the brand or the manufacturer to do quality control". Some Chinese-made tires, particularly from established brands with rigorous standards, perform well despite their origin.
Fourth, RV manufacturers often select tires based primarily on cost rather than durability or safety margins. Installing minimally-rated tires that barely meet vehicle weight requirements has been criticized as a significant contributor to failures.
While passionate debates continue in RV communities, many experienced RVers recommend focusing less on country of origin and more on selecting properly rated tires with appropriate load capacities for your specific vehicle requirements.
Understanding proper tire ratings can mean the difference between safe travels and catastrophic failures. Your RV's tires need to handle substantial weight at highway speeds while withstanding heat, UV exposure, and constant stress. Let's break down how tire load ratings work and why they matter so much for your safety.
Load range ratings tell you exactly how much weight each tire can safely carry at maximum inflation pressure. These ratings replaced the older "ply rating" system but serve the same essential purpose—communicating a tire's strength and capacity.
Here's how the load range system breaks down:
Load Range B (4-ply rated): Maximum pressure of 35 PSI, suitable for light-duty applications
Load Range C (6-ply rated): Maximum pressure of 50 PSI, typically used on lighter travel trailers
Load Range D (8-ply rated): Maximum pressure of 65 PSI, common on many RV trailers
Load Range E (10-ply rated): Maximum pressure of 80 PSI, recommended minimum for most RVs
Load Range F (12-ply rated): Maximum pressure of 95 PSI, better for heavier trailers
Load Range G (14-ply rated): Maximum pressure of 110 PSI, ideal for fifth wheels and heavy trailers
Each jump in load range letter means more plies, higher maximum pressure capacity, and critically—greater weight-carrying ability. For example, a common ST225/75R15 tire changes dramatically across load ranges: Load Range C handles 2,540 lbs per tire, while Load Range E jumps to 2,830 lbs, and Load Range G reaches 3,640 lbs.
The tire's sidewall displays this information clearly. Look for markings like "LOAD RANGE E" or "MAX LOAD 2830 LBS AT 80 PSI COLD". This tells you precisely what each tire can handle when properly inflated.
Your RV's total weight gets distributed across its tires, making proper load capacity absolutely critical for safety. Many RV owners don't realize their fully loaded vehicle exceeds what their tires can safely handle.
Research shows that approximately 31% of motorhomes exceed their tire load capacity while staying within their Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). This hidden danger occurs because RV manufacturers sometimes install minimally-rated tires to meet cost targets rather than providing adequate safety margins.
Heat generation creates the primary failure mechanism in overloaded tires. As one expert explained, "The reason the tires blow is heat... the hotter the tire gets, the weaker the rubber becomes". When tires carry too much weight, they flex more with each rotation, generating excessive heat that breaks down the rubber compounds until catastrophic failure occurs.
Industry experts recommend maintaining at least a 20% safety margin above your actual loaded weight. If your RV's axle weighs 6,000 lbs, your tires should collectively handle at least 7,200 lbs. This buffer accounts for weight distribution variations, road conditions, and heat buildup during extended highway driving.
A study of 42,500 RVs found that approximately 31% of motorhomes exceeded their tire load capacity without exceeding their GAWR. This discrepancy happens because manufacturers focus on meeting axle weight limits rather than ensuring adequate tire capacity.
Several critical errors put RV owners at risk when it comes to tire load ratings:
Never weighing the loaded RV: Many owners assume their RV falls within specifications without actually checking. Your manufacturer's stated cargo capacity doesn't account for all the modifications, supplies, water, propane, and personal items you've added. The only way to know your actual weight is using a CAT scale or similar truck scale.
Assuming equal weight distribution: Weight rarely distributes evenly across axles or even side-to-side. Slide-outs, holding tanks, and cargo placement create significant imbalances. Always weigh each axle and ideally each wheel position separately to identify potential overload situations.
Ignoring the 20% safety margin: Running tires at their maximum rated capacity leaves zero room for error. Temperature changes, road conditions, and normal wear all reduce effective capacity. That 20% buffer protects you from unexpected situations.
Matching tires to original equipment rather than actual needs: Just because your RV came with Load Range D tires doesn't mean that's what it should have. Many owners discover after upgrading to Load Range E or F that their RV handles better and feels more stable on the highway.
Focusing only on tread depth: A tire with perfect tread can still be dangerously overloaded. Load capacity depends on structural integrity and proper inflation, not just tread condition.
Neglecting proper inflation: Your tire only achieves its rated capacity at maximum cold pressure. Running even 10 PSI low can reduce load capacity by 10% or more, effectively turning your Load Range E tire into a Load Range D in terms of actual capacity.
Understanding and properly managing tire load ratings represents one of the most important safety steps RV owners can take. The difference between adequate and inadequate tire ratings can literally mean the difference between arriving safely and experiencing a catastrophic failure at highway speeds.
Recognizing warning signs before catastrophic failure occurs can save your life, protect your RV investment, and prevent roadside disasters. Learning what to look for takes just a few minutes but provides invaluable peace of mind.
Your tire's sidewall contains critical safety information if you know how to decode it. Start by locating the tire size marking, which typically looks something like "ST225/75R15". This breaks down as follows:
ST: Special Trailer tire (never use passenger car or LT tires on trailers unless specifically rated)
225: Section width in millimeters
75: Aspect ratio (sidewall height as percentage of width)
R: Radial construction (always choose radial over bias-ply)
15: Wheel diameter in inches
Next, find the load range and maximum pressure information. Look for text like "LOAD RANGE E" or "MAX LOAD 2830 LBS AT 80 PSI COLD". This tells you precisely what weight each tire can safely carry at proper inflation.
The DOT code provides manufacturing details. This code looks like "DOT U2LL LMLR 3618" where the last four digits matter most. "3618" means the tire was manufactured in the 36th week of 2018. Any tire over 5 years old needs immediate attention regardless of tread depth.
Additional sidewall markings include maximum speed ratings and construction details. ST tires typically have speed ratings of 65 mph, though some newer models go higher. Operating consistently above these speeds generates excessive heat and accelerates tire degradation.
Visual inspection reveals many potential problems before they become catastrophic failures. Check your tires regularly for these danger signs:
Bulges or bubbles: Any bulge in the sidewall indicates internal structural failure. The tire's layers have separated, creating a weak spot that will eventually burst. Replace these tires immediately—they can fail without warning.
Cracks or weather checking: Deep cracks in the sidewall or between tread blocks suggest age-related deterioration. Surface cracks might seem minor but indicate the rubber compounds are breaking down. UV exposure accelerates this process, especially on RVs stored outdoors.
Unusual wear patterns: Uneven tread wear signals alignment issues, improper inflation, or overloading. Wear on only one shoulder suggests inflation problems, while center wear indicates overinflation. Scalloped or cupped wear patterns point to suspension problems.
Tread separation: Look closely at how the tread bonds to the tire body. Any lifting, gaps, or loose sections indicate delamination beginning. You might feel "humps" or vibrations while driving before visual separation becomes obvious.
Exposed cords or fabric: If you can see the underlying structure through the rubber, the tire is dangerously compromised. This exposes the internal components to moisture and contaminants that accelerate failure.
Persistent low pressure: If a tire consistently loses pressure, you have either a slow leak or more likely, internal structural damage allowing air to escape. Don't just keep adding air—investigate the cause.
Vibrations while driving: Unusual vibrations that appear at specific speeds often indicate internal belt separation or other structural issues. Don't ignore these warnings—they typically precede catastrophic failure.
Time degrades tires regardless of mileage or appearance. Rubber compounds oxidize, UV radiation breaks down materials, and environmental exposure weakens structural integrity. These factors make tire age as critical as tread depth.
Most tire experts recommend replacing RV tires every 5 years maximum, with some suggesting 3-4 years for maximum safety. This applies even if the tires look perfect and have plenty of tread remaining. The internal structure deteriorates over time whether the tire rolls down the highway or sits in storage.
RV tires face particularly harsh conditions that accelerate aging. Extended periods of inactivity create flat spots and uneven stress. Outdoor storage exposes tires to constant UV bombardment. Temperature extremes—both hot and cold—stress rubber compounds. Loading and unloading cycles, even while parked, fatigue the structure.
Check your tire's age using the DOT code explained earlier. If those last four digits show the tire is approaching or past 5 years old, schedule replacement regardless of tread depth or appearance. The cost of new tires is far less than dealing with a blowout and the damage it causes.
Some warning signs specifically indicate age-related deterioration:
Sidewall cracking, especially near the rim
Fading or discoloration of the rubber
Loss of flexibility—the rubber feels hard rather than resilient
Surface checking that looks like small cracks in old paint
Store RV tires properly to extend their life when not in use. Keep them covered from UV exposure, maintain proper inflation even during storage, and avoid parking on wet surfaces or chemicals. If storing wheels off the vehicle, keep them in a cool, dry location away from ozone sources like electric motors.
Upgrading from problematic tires to quality alternatives dramatically improves your RV's safety, handling, and reliability. While premium tires cost more initially, they deliver better performance and prevent the devastating costs associated with highway blowouts.
Several manufacturers have established reputations for producing reliable RV tires. These brands invest in quality control, better materials, and proven construction methods:
Goodyear Endurance: This tire consistently ranks as the top choice among RV owners who've upgraded from China bombs. The Endurance features Goodyear's Durawall technology that strengthens sidewalls and helps prevent damage from road debris and curb contact. Users report excellent stability, improved handling, and significantly better lifespan compared to budget alternatives. Typical pricing runs $180-$250 per tire depending on size.
Michelin: Multiple Michelin models serve the RV market, with the XPS RibTM being particularly popular. Michelin's reputation for durability and quality construction makes them a premium choice. While more expensive at $200-$300 per tire, they often deliver the longest service life with proper maintenance. Many RVers consider them the gold standard for trailer tires.
Maxxis: The Maxxis M8008 ST Radial has gained strong following for delivering excellent performance at a moderate price point. These tires handle well, resist weather checking better than budget alternatives, and typically cost $120-$180 per tire. They represent a solid middle-ground option between economy and premium tires.
Carlisle: The Radial Trail HD is Carlisle's premium ST tire option. It features a 10-ply rated construction with steel belt reinforcement. While not quite reaching the reputation of Goodyear or Michelin, Carlisle tires cost less at $130-$200 per tire while still delivering reliable performance. They're manufactured in the United States, which appeals to some buyers.
Sailun: The Sailun S637 offers a budget-friendly alternative that many RVers find reliable. While manufactured in China like the "bomb" tires, Sailun maintains better quality control. These typically run $100-$150 per tire. Some owners report good experiences, though they don't have the long track record of established brands.
Premium tires differ from China bombs in several fundamental ways that directly impact safety and performance:
Superior materials: Quality tires use better rubber compounds that resist heat buildup, UV degradation, and weather checking. The difference becomes obvious after a few years—premium tires maintain flexibility and structural integrity while budget alternatives crack and harden.
Improved construction: Better tires feature steel belt construction, reinforced sidewalls, and more robust internal structure. The manufacturing process includes stricter quality control that catches defects before tires reach customers. This attention to detail dramatically reduces the risk of sudden failures.
Higher load ratings: Premium manufacturers typically offer wider ranges of load ratings within each size. This makes it easier to find tires that provide adequate safety margins for your specific RV weight. A Goodyear Endurance in ST225/75R15, for example, comes in Load Range E with 2,830 lb capacity.
Better heat management: Quality tires dissipate heat more effectively through improved tread design and rubber compounds. Since heat causes most tire failures, this characteristic proves critical for highway driving with loaded RVs.
Proven performance: Established brands have decades of engineering experience and extensive testing behind their products. They understand the specific stresses RV tires face and design accordingly. User reviews and failure rate data support these tires' reliability.
Many RV owners achieve dramatic improvements by upgrading beyond standard ST tires to higher load range options or even Light Truck (LT) tires:
Load Range G advantages: Moving from Load Range D or E to Load Range G provides substantial additional capacity. For that ST225/75R15 size, Load Range G handles 3,640 lbs per tire versus 2,830 lbs for Load Range E. This 28% increase in capacity creates meaningful safety margins. The stronger construction also improves stability and reduces sway.
However, Load Range G tires require wheels rated for higher pressures (110 PSI). Verify your wheels can safely handle this before upgrading. Some RV wheels max out at 80-95 PSI, making Load Range G incompatible without also replacing wheels.
LT tire option: Light Truck tires designed for pickup trucks and commercial vehicles offer another upgrade path. LT tires typically feature more robust construction than ST tires and often come in higher load ratings. For example, an LT225/75R16 Load Range E handles significantly more weight than an ST225/75R15.
Benefits of LT tires include:
Generally better availability and selection
Often less expensive than specialty ST tires
Typically more durable in daily use
Better high-speed stability
The potential downside of LT tires involves sidewall stiffness. ST tires are designed with more flexible sidewalls to handle trailer-specific stresses like sharp turning and backing. Some RV owners report LT tires work perfectly fine, while others prefer ST tire characteristics. Research specific tire models and read RV community feedback before switching tire types.
Cost considerations: Upgrading to premium tires represents a significant investment. A typical travel trailer with four tires might cost:
Budget "China bombs": $300-$500 total
Mid-range quality (Maxxis, Sailun): $500-$800 total
Premium (Goodyear Endurance, Michelin): $800-$1,200 total
Load Range G upgrade: Add $100-$300 to any category
While premium tires cost substantially more upfront, they typically last longer and perform better throughout their lifespan. More importantly, preventing even one catastrophic blowout saves thousands in potential RV damage, towing costs, and lost vacation time. The investment in quality tires represents genuine insurance against far more expensive problems.
Upgrading your RV tires requires more than just buying new rubber. Following the right process ensures you select appropriate tires, install them correctly, and maintain them for maximum safety and longevity.
Taking a systematic approach to tire replacement prevents common mistakes and ensures the best results:
Step 1: Document your current setup
Before shopping for new tires, gather complete information about your current tires and wheels. Record:
Current tire size (from sidewall)
Load range
Wheel diameter and width
Bolt pattern
Maximum wheel pressure rating
Take photos of your current tire sidewalls showing all markings. This documentation helps ensure you order compatible replacements and provides reference information for tire shops.
Step 2: Weigh your loaded RV
Drive to a truck scale (CAT scales work great) with your RV loaded as you typically travel. This means full propane, water tanks at traveling level, and all gear aboard. Get separate weights for:
Total vehicle weight
Front axle weight
Rear axle weight
Individual wheel positions if possible
This data determines what load rating you actually need. Remember to add that 20% safety margin to your heaviest axle weight when selecting tire capacity.
Step 3: Research tire options
Based on your weight data and current tire information, identify appropriate upgrade options. Consider:
Whether you can increase load range with your existing wheels
If you need to replace wheels to accommodate higher pressure tires
Whether alternative sizes might work better
Brand reputation and user reviews from RV communities
RV forums and owner groups provide valuable real-world feedback about different tire options. Search for experiences with your specific RV model if possible.
Step 4: Order tires
Purchase all tires at once to ensure they come from the same manufacturing batch and have identical date codes. This ensures even wear and performance. Order one spare as well—having a spare that matches your new tires exactly provides peace of mind on the road.
Verify the seller's return policy before ordering. If you discover compatibility issues, you'll want the option to exchange them.
Step 5: Professional installation
While experienced DIYers can mount tires themselves, professional installation provides important benefits:
Proper tire mounting and balancing
Wheel inspection for damage or defects
Correct torque specifications for lug nuts
Valve stem replacement (critical—always replace stems with new tires)
Initial inflation to proper pressure
Choose a shop experienced with RV tires. Some passenger car tire shops lack experience with ST tires and trailer-specific requirements.
Step 6: Initial setup and inspection
After installation:
Verify proper inflation pressure (use a quality gauge, not gas station air)
Recheck lug nut torque after 50-100 miles
Inspect tires for any installation issues
Test drive to verify no vibrations or handling problems
Record installation date and mileage for future reference.
Understanding the true cost of tire replacement helps you budget appropriately and appreciate the value of quality tires:
Direct tire costs: As discussed earlier, expect to pay anywhere from $400-$1,500+ for a complete set of four tires depending on size, brand, and load rating. Premium brands cost more but typically last longer and perform better.
Installation fees: Professional mounting, balancing, and installation typically runs $15-$30 per tire. Some shops charge more for RV tires due to their size and weight. Budget $100-$150 for professional installation of four tires including valve stems.
Wheel upgrades: If you're upgrading to higher load range tires that require wheels rated for higher pressure, wheel replacement adds significant cost. Quality steel wheels run $50-$150 each, while aluminum wheels cost $150-$300 each. For four wheels plus a spare, budget an additional $300-$1,500.
Additional items: Don't forget about:
Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS): $200-$400 for a quality system
Valve stem extensions if needed: $20-$40
Wheel chocks: $30-$80 for quality chocks
Tire covers for storage: $40-$100
Hidden savings: While the upfront investment seems steep, consider the costs you're avoiding:
Roadside tire failure: $150-$300 service call plus tire cost
RV damage from blowout: Easily $2,000-$10,000+ in repairs
Ruined vacation: Priceless
Insurance deductible: $500-$1,000 typical
Towing charges: $200-$500 or more
A blowout that damages your RV's underbelly, tears out plumbing, or creates electrical problems quickly costs far more than a set of quality tires. One catastrophic failure can easily exceed the cost of premium tires several times over.
Proper tire maintenance extends tire life and prevents premature failures:
Pressure checks: Check tire pressure at least monthly and before every trip. Tires lose 1-2 PSI per month naturally, and pressure changes with temperature. Check when tires are cold (before driving or at least 3 hours after stopping). Maintain the pressure recommended on your tire sidewall—not what your RV manufacturer suggests, but what the tire manufacturer specifies for the load you're carrying.
Visual inspections: Walk around your RV before each trip to inspect tires for obvious problems. Look for low pressure (bulging sidewalls), cuts, embedded objects, or abnormal wear. More detailed inspections should happen monthly, checking for cracking, unusual wear patterns, or age-related deterioration.
Proper storage: When storing your RV for extended periods:
Use tire covers to protect from UV damage
Consider lifting the RV onto jack stands to remove weight from tires
Maintain proper tire pressure even during storage
Store in a covered area if possible
Place moisture barriers under tires to prevent ground moisture contact
Weight management: Reweigh your RV periodically, especially after major modifications or if you've accumulated more gear. Staying within proper weight limits dramatically extends tire life and reduces failure risk.
Avoid common mistakes:
Don't use tire shine products—they can degrade rubber
Don't ignore small cuts or damage—have them professionally assessed
Don't exceed posted speed limits for your tire type
Don't forget to rotate tires if manufacturer recommends it (some ST tires should not be rotated)
Record keeping: Maintain a simple log documenting:
Installation date and mileage
Pressure checks and adjustments
Inspections and any issues found
Weather exposure and storage conditions
This log helps you track tire condition over time and plan for replacement before problems occur.
Quality tires with proper maintenance typically last 3-5 years or 20,000-40,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, time usually becomes the limiting factor for RV tires since many RVers don't accumulate high mileage. Plan to replace tires approaching 5 years old regardless of tread depth or appearance to maintain maximum safety.
Concern |
What It Is |
Key Details |
Why It Matters |
What to Do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
China Bomb Tires |
Low-quality ST tires with inadequate load capacity |
- Minimal load ratings |
- Catastrophic highway failures |
- Check load capacity vs. actual weight |
Load Range Ratings |
Your tire's weight-carrying ability |
- B through G ratings (4-ply to 14-ply) |
- Need 20% safety margin above weight |
- Weigh your loaded RV |
Spotting Problem Tires |
How to identify dangerous tires before they fail |
- Check DOT manufacturing codes |
- Old tires fail regardless of tread |
- Read sidewall information carefully |
Better Tire Options |
Proven brands that deliver safety and performance |
- Goodyear Endurance, Michelin, Maxxis |
- Superior handling and stability |
- Choose established manufacturers |
Making the Upgrade |
Steps to replace dangerous tires safely |
- Document current specifications |
- Eliminates blowout risks |
- Plan the upgrade process |
Protecting yourself from dangerous China bomb tires comes down to smart tire selection and proper load ratings. These problematic tires earned their reputation through real failures that damaged RVs and put families at risk. The main issue isn't where tires are made—it's choosing tires with adequate load capacity and proven quality control.
Your RV needs tires that can handle your actual weight with a solid safety margin. Upgrading from inadequate C or D-rated tires to properly rated E, F, or G options makes a dramatic difference in both safety and handling. Learning to read sidewall information helps you spot potential problems before they become roadside disasters.
We believe in providing quality tires from trusted manufacturers like Goodyear, Michelin, and Maxxis. These brands cost more upfront but deliver better performance, improved stability, and most importantly—reliable service when you need it most. Quality tires typically last 3-6 years under normal conditions, making them a smart long-term investment.
The math is simple: upgrading your tires costs far less than dealing with a catastrophic blowout. A single tire failure can tear out plumbing, damage electrical systems, and create dangerous gas leaks. Add in towing costs, emergency repairs, and ruined vacations, and the price of prevention looks pretty reasonable.
At Performance Plus Tire, we recommend weighing your fully loaded RV, selecting tires that exceed your actual weight by at least 20%, and replacing them every 3-5 years regardless of tread condition. Our expert team can guide you through the selection process to find the perfect match for your vehicle and travel needs.
Your safety depends on those contact points between your RV and the road. Don't cut corners on tire quality when your family's safety is at stake. We're here to help you make the right choice for reliable, safe travels.
Ready to upgrade your RV tires? Our knowledgeable staff can help you find the best selection of quality tires at competitive prices.
Understanding "China bomb" tires and their alternatives can prevent dangerous roadside emergencies and protect your RV investment.
• Identify dangerous tires by load ratings: China bomb tires typically have inadequate C or D load ratings for RV weights - upgrade to E, F, or G-rated tires with 20% excess capacity over your actual vehicle weight.
• Check tire sidewall information regularly: Look for DOT codes, manufacturing dates (replace after 5 years), and signs of delamination, bulges, or tread separation that indicate potential failure.
• Invest in quality brands for safety: Replace problematic tires with trusted manufacturers like Goodyear Endurance, Michelin, or Maxxis - the $800-1,000 upgrade cost prevents thousands in blowout damage.
• Weigh your RV before tire selection: Use CAT scales to determine actual axle weights, as 31% of motorhomes exceed tire ratings without exceeding axle limits, creating hidden dangers.
The real issue isn't country of origin but inadequate load capacity and poor quality control. A single tire blowout can cause extensive RV damage including torn plumbing, gas leaks, and electrical problems - making proper tire selection a critical safety investment rather than an optional upgrade.
Look for low-cost ST (Special Trailer) tires with minimal load ratings, often using nylon or polyester plies instead of steel belts. Check the sidewall for manufacturing details and look for signs of poor quality like uneven appearance, bulges, or inconsistent molding. Brands frequently associated with issues include Westlake, Compass, and Castle Rock.
The primary issues include a higher risk of delamination (tread separation), poor grip and handling, premature wear, and structural problems that can lead to catastrophic failures at highway speeds. These tires often lack proper load capacity for RV weights and may have quality control issues during manufacturing.
Load rating is crucial for RV tire safety. Experts recommend selecting tires with a load capacity that exceeds your vehicle's fully loaded weight by at least 20%. Upgrading from lower-rated tires (like Load Range C or D) to higher-rated options (Load Range E, F, or G) can significantly improve safety and performance.
Reputable brands like Goodyear (especially the Endurance model), Michelin, and Maxxis are often recommended as safer alternatives. While more expensive initially, these tires typically offer better durability, handling, and safety features. Always choose radial tires over bias-ply for improved performance and longevity.
Most experts recommend replacing RV tires every 3-5 years, regardless of visible tread condition. Factors like UV exposure and age-related degradation can compromise tire integrity even if they appear fine externally. Always check the tire's manufacturing date (found in the DOT code) and consider replacement if it's approaching or exceeding 5 years old.
