Can a spare tire still be used after 5 years?
2 Answers
Under normal circumstances, a spare tire stored in the trunk for 5 years can still be used for emergency purposes without any issues. Service life of a spare tire: A spare tire can be used for more than 6 years when stored in the trunk. Even if unused, the spare tire should be replaced within the tire warranty period. Tires are made of rubber and have a warranty period. If stored for too long, the rigidity and tensile strength of the tire will weaken, making it prone to bursting during normal driving. Introduction to car spare tires: A spare tire refers to the backup tire for a car, with specifications basically the same as the original tires, allowing the owner to replace a flat tire promptly. In reality, a spare tire is for emergency use only, not for long-term use. Regardless of width, manufacturers have special requirements for the production and use of spare tires.
As a seasoned driver, I think keeping a spare tire for five years is indeed a problem. Tire rubber naturally ages over time, becoming brittle and cracking even if it's never been driven a single kilometer. Checking it is simple—look for the DOT code on the tire sidewall; the last four digits indicate the year and week of production. For example, 1920 means the 19th week of 2020. Generally, anything over four years poses a significant risk. I've seen many cases where a spare tire suddenly bursts during replacement, which is extremely dangerous, especially on highways—it can be deadly. Storage conditions also matter—if the trunk is hot or humid, the aging process speeds up. I recommend regularly checking the tire pressure to ensure it's not flat and carefully inspecting the surface for cracks or bulges. Safety comes first. Before an emergency arises, it's best to take it to a repair shop for a professional inspection or simply replace it with a new tire. A spare tire is meant to be a lifesaver—don't risk it over small savings. Replacing it doesn't cost much, but your life is far more valuable.
