Posted on 20/04/2018 16:48
I have just had 2 new rear tyres on my 3yr old Honda Accord Tourer, the old tyres were stepping. As the car was still under warranty Honda checked everything and found all was ok, all they could come up with was that I tow a caravan. I am now wondering if strengthening my rear suspension would stop this happening again.
I welcome your thoughts on this subject.
David W
Posted on 20/04/2018 18:27 byI am no expert in this field but I would be very tempted to upgrade my tyres (all four) to a higher load rating and ensure you increase the pressures when you tow. The more substantial side walls will flex less and give the tread more support; this may increase road noise. You don't say the make of tyre you are using but I find Michelin to my liking.
Posted on 21/04/2018 07:40
The fact that the car is towing the caravan won't increase the tyre load because it must never exceed the plated limit, whether towing or solo. THe current tyres must therefore already be capable of coping with the maximum allowable load.
An improvement may, however, be achieved by increasing the rear tyre pressure when towing.
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Posted on 21/04/2018 10:56
Hi to all that commented and thankyou, I think it is a bit of a mystery.
Manufacturers tyres were Yokohama Extra load I have just fitted Pirelli P7 Extra load. I am an ex lorry driver so am fanatical about tyre pressures and my Honda has an on board guage. Nose weight is 75kg though I must admit I have never checked it but I am very careful as to the loading of the van and it is always level when towing
Posted on 21/04/2018 09:02 byI agree with your view Lutz. The original tyre spec should be okay but moving the a higher load capacity tyre will mean stiffer side walls, that will decrease flexing and may stop or decrease the tendency to step. Also, as we have both said, increasing the tyre pressure may help.
Posted on 21/04/2018 12:33 by LutzThe sidewalls of tyres with a higher load rating need not necessarily be significantly stiffer. Of course, if you go to a commercial grade of tyre these will be stiffer because they are designed to take more abuse.
Vi0letandDavid