How Long Can Car Tires Be Stored Before They Become Unusable?
3 Answers
Newly produced tires require 8 to 12 months of storage before entering a stable period. Tires stored for more than 3 years should not be used. This time frame is calculated from the production date, not the purchase date. Generally, the production date is marked on the sidewall of the tire. Here is some relevant information: 1. Typically, the service life of a tire is around 5 years, meaning that the time from production to installation should not exceed 8 years. Generally, tires should be replaced every 5 years or after driving 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers. However, the actual replacement cycle depends on driving conditions, temperature, tire pressure, and driving habits, as tire wear varies under different circumstances. 2. If a tire is severely worn and the tread pattern becomes smooth, its grip and drainage performance will significantly decrease, compromising safety. This can lead to vehicle skidding, longer braking distances, and a higher risk of accidents. Regular checks, such as cross-rotating front and rear tires, testing tire pressure, and performing wheel balancing, are essential to ensure driving safety.
I think this matter needs to be considered based on actual circumstances. The tire production date can be found on the sidewall, with four digits like 1523 indicating the 15th week of 2023. Even if never used, rubber starts to harden and crack after about five years. Last year, I found a seven-year-old stock tire in my garage—the tread was still deep, but it had become hard and brittle to the touch, so I threw it straight into recycling. If storage conditions are poor, such as direct sunlight or exposure to oil and gasoline, aging accelerates even faster. When replacing tires, don’t just look at wear—rubber lifespan matters too, especially in humid southern regions where deterioration happens more easily.
Last time I helped my neighbor check the tires, I encountered this exact situation. All four stock tires still had their mold hairs intact, but they were already six and a half years old from the manufacturing date. Upon closer inspection, the sidewalls were covered in fine cracks, resembling a dried-up riverbed. The mechanic said such tires are particularly prone to air leaks in winter and even risk blowouts in summer. I advise everyone to keep their eyes peeled when buying new tires—don't just go for the cheapest price. Checking the tire sidewall date is standard practice in physical stores, and when buying online, always ask customer service to confirm the production batch. I personally avoid any tires with over three years of stock age, as rubber oxidation is irreversible.
