Can tires stored for seven or eight years still be used?
3 Answers
Tires stored for seven or eight years are not recommended for use. Tires are rubber products and will age even when not in use. Continuing to use them poses a risk of blowouts. Below is an introduction to car tires. 1. Tire lifespan: Generally, the lifespan of a tire is 6-8 years, with a maximum of 10 years. For tires older than 6 years, check the edges for rubber cracking. If no obvious cracks are found, they can still be used. If significant cracking is observed, it is advisable to replace the tire. 2. Tire mileage: If the tire has no issues (such as excessive patching, side punctures, etc.), but has been in service for four years, it should be replaced even if the mileage has not reached 80,000 kilometers. Similarly, if the mileage reaches 80,000 kilometers before four years, replacement is also recommended.
Regarding whether tires that have been in stock for seven or eight years can still be used, I think the risk is too high. Even if the tires have never been used, the rubber will naturally age and harden, becoming brittle and cracked over time. After seven or eight years, the internal structure may degrade, significantly reducing their pressure resistance. At high speeds, they are prone to blowouts or leaks, leading to loss of control and serious accidents, which is extremely dangerous. I've seen many cases where owners tried to save a little money but ended up with major problems, spending even more on repairs. For safety reasons, I recommend directly replacing them with new tires. Modern products offer better performance, greater durability, and can even improve fuel efficiency. Regularly checking the production date of tires is essential—generally, tires older than five years should not be used. Safety comes first.
I've had several bad experiences using tires that had been in stock for years. Once I installed an 8-year-old tire, and it soon lost traction on wet roads, fortunately without major consequences. Aged tires have weaker grip, longer braking distances, and are especially dangerous in winter. Even when stored properly without sunlight exposure, the rubber loses elasticity over time. After learning my lesson, I always buy new tires now - the ride feels noticeably smoother and quieter. Don't risk your safety to save small money - life is more important.