When you purchase a set of tires, it is important to consider and be aware of how long do tires last in storage.
Depending on their age and condition, tires can last for a number of years when stored properly. In this article, we will explore how long tires can typically last in storage, as well as the best practices for storing them to keep them in good condition.
We’ll also provide some tips to help you decide when you should replace your tires, even if they are stored correctly. Read on to learn more about tire storage and life expectancy!
How Long Do Tires Last In Storage?
Tires have a “shelf life” that depends on their age and condition. The rubber used to make tires degrades over time and exposure to the elements, so older tires may not last as long in storage as newer ones. Generally speaking, modern tires should be replaced after six years regardless of their condition or wear level.
In addition to age, how you store your tires also affects their lifespan. Tires that are stored in an environment that is too hot or cold, too damp, or exposed to UV radiation will deteriorate more quickly than those kept in a cool, dry place.
How tire age affects Lifespan?
Tire age is a major factor in determining their lifespan. All tires have a date code that shows when they were manufactured—typically located on the sidewall of the tire. The first two digits indicate the week of production, while the last two show the year. These numbers usually come after the letters “DOT.”
For example, “1219” means that the tire was manufactured in March 2019.
If your tires are more than six years old, you should consider replacing them, even if they have been stored properly and show no signs of wear, their rubber can still degrade over time and become brittle or even cracked.
Once tires are six years old, they are considered to be at the end of their useful life, and special care should be taken with them. Shops will advise you to replaced them as soon as possible, however tires that still have tread life and have been cared for regularly can still be in a good enough condition to be driven on safely.
How To Properly Store Tires?
If you need to store your tires for an extended period of time, there are some steps you can take to ensure their lifespan is maximized.
- Clean the tires thoroughly before storing them and inspect for any punctures, cracks, or other damage.
- Store them in a cool, dry area with low humidity away from direct sunlight.
- Avoid keeping the tires in an area where the temperature gets to low or too high.
- Avoid placing the tires directly on the floor
- Cover them with a blanket or towel to protect them from dust and dirt
- Fill each tire to the correct PSI, as overinflated tires can increase wear and tear on the rubber during storage.
Following these steps will help ensure that your tires last longer in storage, but be sure to keep an eye on their age and condition even if they are stored correctly. Even the best-maintained tires have a limited lifespan and can become unsafe after a certain amount of time.
Ultimately, it is up to you to decide when it is time to replace your tires based on their age, wear, and storage conditions. Keeping an eye on their condition and replacing them when necessary will help keep you safe, so it is always better to be proactive and replace your tires before they become unsafe!
By following these simple steps for tire storage, you can ensure that your tires last as long as possible in storage. With proper care, modern tires should last up to six years before
When to Replace Your Tires – Even If They Are Stored Properly
Once a tire is older than 8 years old, we would strongly recommend not using them as they are considered to be past their useful life and may not provide the necessary level of grip and performance.
This is because the rubber used to make tires is not designed to last much longer than six years and will have begun to deteriorate, so older tires may not last as long in storage as newer ones. Generally speaking, modern tires should be replaced after six years regardless of their condition or wear level.
Caring for your tires
Visually inspecting and caring for your tires regularly becomes even more important as tires age. This is especially important if you are planning to use them on a vehicle that will be driven regularly.
Check for any obvious signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or punctures. Also, make sure that all the tires are inflated to the correct PSI as this can affect their performance and lifespan. If you notice any signs of cracking, bulging, or uneven tread wear, you should avoid driving on the vehicle and change to your spare tire until you are able to replace the tire for a new one.
It is also important to ensure your tires are properly aligned with a wheel alignment service if you notice abnormal wear patterns on the treads. This will help your tires last longer as they won’t be subjected to unnecessary strain or tread wear.
Ultimately, making sure you keep tabs on the condition of your tires is important for their longevity, especially if they are older than six years old and have been stored properly. Regular inspection and maintenance will ensure that they are safe to use and are able to provide you with optimal performance.
Caring for your tires regularly may seem like a hassle, but it is essential for ensuring the safety of both you and your vehicle. Taking the time to care for your tires now will save you money in the long run by prolonging their lifespan and helping them stay in good condition.
Conclusion
Storing your tires correctly and taking good care of them will ensure that they last for as long as possible. Pay attention to their age and condition, as even if they are stored properly, older tires may not provide the same level of performance as newer ones.
Also, be sure to carry out regular visual inspections and maintenance on your tires as this will help to identify any issues before they become a problem. By following these tips, you can ensure that your tires last for many years to come.
Check out our free cheat sheet for everything you need to know to maintain and look after your tires so that they last as long as possible!
