Are tires stable after 3 months from production?
2 Answers
Buying car tires that have been stored for half a year after production is best as tires are rubber products. Here are the detailed explanations: 1. Safety impact: Normally, newly produced tires have relatively unstable rubber molecules and softer sidewalls. If installed and frequently driven on bumpy roads, the probability of sidewall bulging increases, which may compromise safety. 2. Purchase guidance: Under normal conditions, tires need to be stored for half a year for the rubber molecules to gradually stabilize, making them more elastic and wear-resistant. Therefore, tires reach their optimal state six months after production; beyond two years, the rubber properties begin to degrade, making them prone to cracking after installation; storage for three to four years or longer will make this condition more apparent, and such tires are not recommended for purchase and installation.
Tires may not have fully stabilized within three months after leaving the factory. I once replaced a set of new tires with a similar production date, and they consistently produced a humming noise and slight vibrations while driving. Later, experienced drivers told me that tire rubber compounds require a curing period, typically taking six to twelve months to reach optimal performance. Now, I always check the DOT code on the tire sidewall before purchasing—this number indicates the manufacturing date. For example, 2524 means the 25th week of 2024. If the tires are too fresh, the rubber compound may not provide ideal grip or wear resistance, potentially compromising safety. Storage conditions also play a crucial role: dry and cool environments allow gradual curing, while hot and humid conditions accelerate aging. For safety, it’s more reliable to wait at least six months after production before installing new tires.
