Does prolonged storage affect tires?
4 Answers
Theoretically, tires that have been stored for too long should not be used. Below is relevant information about tire pressure: 1. Introduction to tire pressure: Strictly speaking, it refers to the air pressure inside the tire. Tire pressure is closely related to vehicle performance, such as comfort and load capacity, and also affects tire lifespan. 2. Hazards of low tire pressure: Insufficient pressure increases tire body deformation, leading to cracks on the sidewalls and flexing movements, which cause excessive heat, accelerate rubber aging, fatigue in the cord layers, and cord breakage. It also increases the tire's contact area with the ground, accelerating shoulder wear. 3. Hazards of high tire pressure: Excessive pressure overextends the tire cords, reducing the elasticity of the tire body and increasing the load on the vehicle during driving. Impacts may cause internal cracks or blowouts, while high pressure also accelerates tread wear and reduces resistance to punctures.
I've been driving for over a decade, and the impact of aging tires is significant, with safety being the most common concern. Aged rubber becomes hard and brittle, with small cracks possibly appearing on the surface, especially prone to blowouts under summer heat—losing control suddenly on the highway is extremely dangerous. Last time I checked my tires, the treads were completely worn down, reducing grip; I've slid several times when turning on rainy days, nearly causing accidents. It's advisable to check tire wear indicators and cracks every six months—don't wait until the treads are completely gone to replace them, safety comes first. Generally, tires need replacing every 6 to 10 years—don't skimp on that expense to avoid regret.
As someone who loves long-distance driving, the performance degradation of old tires is quite noticeable. After prolonged use, tires deform unevenly, resulting in loud, annoying humming noises while driving. New tires used to provide responsive acceleration and braking, but now there's a noticeable lag, especially when turning—it feels like sliding on ice. Aging tires can also cause unstable tire pressure, with the tire pressure warning light frequently coming on, requiring time-consuming repairs. I recommend measuring the tread depth every 5,000 kilometers; if it's shallow, it's time to consider replacing them to avoid discomfort on the road. In short, good tires make driving much smoother—don't wait too long to replace them.
Worn-out tires can hit your wallet hard. I've experienced increased fuel consumption with old tires - the worn and deformed tread increases friction, adding an extra half liter per 100km. That really adds up over a year. Waiting until they blow out means paying for towing too. Generally, tires should be replaced every 7-8 years to save both money and hassle. Simple habits like parking away from direct sunlight can slow aging - don't underestimate these small details.
