Can New Tires Be Used After Five or Six Years of Storage?
3 Answers
New tires stored for five or six years are not recommended for use. Even if the tires appear to be in good condition, it is advisable to avoid using them for safety reasons. Tires are circular elastic rubber products mounted on vehicles or machinery to roll on the ground. They are typically installed on metal rims and serve to support the vehicle body, absorb external shocks, maintain contact with the road surface, and ensure driving performance. Tire maintenance methods include: 1. Maintaining a safe distance while driving at high speeds to avoid unnecessary or frequent braking, which can reduce tire damage; 2. Proper inflation is critical for tire longevity. The air pressure in tires must comply with national standards for different types and specifications of tires. Additionally, tire pressure may increase due to temperature rise after driving, and releasing air at this time is not recommended.
Can tires stored for five or six years still be used? I think the risk is quite high. Rubber materials will harden and degrade over time, just like plastic becoming brittle after prolonged storage, making them prone to fine cracks. Once tires age, their grip will significantly decrease, increasing the risk of skidding in rain or snow. Braking distance also lengthens, which could lead to accidents. I know a friend who used tires stored for seven years, and they blew out on the highway—fortunately, no one was hurt. Safety should always come first, so don’t take the risk. It’s best to check the manufacturing date (DOT code on the tire sidewall) and look for obvious cracks or hardening. Storage conditions also matter—direct sunlight and high temperatures accelerate aging. Even if the tires look new, their internal structure may already be compromised. I recommend avoiding such long-stored tires and replacing them for safety. Tires typically have a shelf life of about five years, and manufacturers advise against using them beyond that period. Let’s not overlook risks just to save money.
I have a few sets of new tires that have been stored for five or six years without ever being used, but only under proper storage conditions. In a cool, dry place like my garage, where the tires aren’t exposed to sunlight or chemicals, the aging process slows down. After unwrapping them, I carefully inspected the surface: no cracks, and the elasticity still seemed decent, so I mounted them for a short test drive. However, the difference was noticeable—the handling felt unstable during turns, and the grip was weaker. Rubber naturally hardens over time, reducing performance. Later, I took them to a professional shop to check the tire pressure and wear. The technician warned that they absolutely shouldn’t be used if stored much longer, and the ideal storage temperature should be kept between 15-25°C. While this might save some money, the safety limit is no more than five years of storage—especially if your storage conditions are poor. In that case, replace them immediately. It might be cost-effective, but don’t risk safety for minor savings.
