Trailer Tire Maintenance: Safe Towing for Late Summer Campers

Whether you are hauling a travel trailer to the national parks or towing a boat to the lake, trailer tires face unique challenges that passenger vehicle tires don't. Because trailers often sit idle for long periods and carry heavy, static loads, they require specific care to keep your haul safe.

ST (Special Trailer) vs. Passenger Tires

Many owners make the mistake of installing regular passenger car (P) or light truck (LT) tires on their trailers. Trailers should almost always use ST (Special Trailer) tires. ST tires are constructed with stiffer sidewalls to handle heavy vertical loads, control sway, and resist the high scuffing forces created during tight trailer turns.

Key Maintenance Rules for Trailer Tires

• Keep Inflated to Maximum PSI: Unlike passenger tires, trailer tires should almost always be inflated to the maximum cold PSI listed on the tire's sidewall. Under-inflation is the absolute number one cause of trailer tire blowouts because it leads to severe sidewall flexing and overheating.
• Fight Flat Spots and UV Damage: When a trailer sits in one spot for months, the constant load creates "flat spots" in the rubber. Additionally, direct sunlight causes UV dry rot. Protect your tires during storage by using tire covers and parking the trailer on wood blocks rather than direct bare dirt.
• Check the Expiration Date: Trailer tires often look brand new even after 6 years because they have low mileage, but the rubber breaks down internally over time. We recommend replacing trailer tires every 5 to 6 years, regardless of how much tread is remaining.