How Long Does a Tire Qualify as Stock Inventory?
3 Answers
Tires that have been in stock for 1 year are considered stock inventory tires. The shelf life of tires is generally 3 to 5 years. Common tires, such as all-season tires and economy tires, typically have a working lifespan exceeding 50,000 kilometers. Most ordinary users rarely reach 50,000 kilometers within two years. However, for high-performance tires, many have a lifespan of only 30,000 or even 20,000 kilometers, so stock inventory tires that have been stored for a full year should be carefully considered. Tires are circular elastic rubber products mounted on various vehicles or machinery to roll on the ground. They are usually installed on metal rims, supporting the vehicle body, cushioning external impacts, ensuring contact with the road surface, and maintaining the vehicle's driving performance.
There's actually a lot to consider when it comes to tires that have been stored for a long time. Last time I changed tires, I specifically consulted with an experienced mechanic. In fact, tires are considered 'inventory tires' if they've been produced for over a year - you can check the date by looking at the DOT code on the sidewall. Take the Michelin tires I bought for example, the last four digits of the code indicate the year and week of production. Never accept tires that have been in inventory for over 3 years, as the rubber will have hardened and cracked. However, storage conditions are absolutely crucial. Some tire shops store them in dark, dry warehouses, and these 2-year-old tires may actually be in better condition than brand-new tires exposed to half a year of direct sunlight. My advice is to bring a flashlight when buying tires to carefully inspect the sidewalls for any fine cracks or deformations.
Over the years of repairing cars, I've encountered numerous tire cases. Simply put, overstock tires refer to inventory that has been sitting for over a year since production. Many car owners don't know how to read the DOT code on the sidewall - for example, 0223 means the tire was manufactured in the second week of 2023. Storage conditions directly affect the rubber aging rate; tires stored in poorly ventilated warehouses age three times faster than those in climate-controlled facilities. I often tell customers: buying tires that have been in stock for over two years is like throwing money away, especially in humid southern regions. Just yesterday, a customer had overstock tires that were only one and a half years old but already showed sidewall bulges due to prolonged outdoor storage. When inspecting, don't forget to press the tread - avoid any tires that feel hardened.
