How Many Months Should You Not Exceed When Buying Tires?

[SanCharles]

New tires should not be purchased if they have been in storage for more than three years after production. According to the domestic trade industry standard "Technical Specifications for Tire Claims," the claim period (including unused tires and those under normal use) is calculated from the production date of the tire, with a three-year period being the valid claim duration. The domestic trade industry standard "Specifications for Tire Marketing Management" further stipulates that tire dealers should not sell tires that are not eligible for claims. Below is relevant information: Specific reasons: The aging of rubber products like tires leads to significant changes in their physical properties, such as tensile strength, hardness, and wear resistance. The aforementioned industry standards are linked to the general lifespan limits of tires, reflecting the common consensus in the tire distribution industry regarding quality control. Additional information: Every tire has a production date, and it is important to be aware of your tire's usage period and mileage. Exceeding this period or mileage can result in severe tire wear, potentially compromising their ability to perform adequately. Therefore, it is crucial to keep track of your vehicle's tire production dates to avoid potential issues.

[Irene]

I used to be a hoarder too, always wanting to keep new tires for later use when the old ones wore out. Once, I bought a set of spare tires and stored them in the garage for almost a year and a half. Later, when I installed them and drove on the highway, I found the grip was terrible. During a rainy day, I almost slid out of the lane while turning. After checking, I found the rubber had cracked. Tires aren’t permanent; storing them for too long increases the risk of rubber aging. It’s recommended not to leave them unused for more than 8 months after purchase. When storing, keep them in a cool, dry, and dark place to avoid accelerating aging. Always check the production date—the DOT code’s four-digit number indicates the week and year, e.g., 3622 means the 36th week of 2022. Safety first—now I only buy fresh tires and replace them promptly.

[JesseFitz]

As an avid car enthusiast who spends every day thinking about vehicles, I have to say don't store tires for too long. Rubber materials degrade over time, and they'll age even if they're just sitting unused. Ideally, you shouldn't let new tires sit idle for more than a year after purchase. Every time I buy new tires, I check the DOT code to determine the manufacturing date - for example, 2423 means the 24th week of 2023. Storage should be in a well-ventilated area away from heat, otherwise it affects performance. My friend hoarded tires for 15 months, and after installation, the braking distance increased significantly with noticeably worse wet traction during testing. Related maintenance advice includes regularly checking the condition of spare tires, but for new cars or tire replacements, it's best to act promptly - don't compromise safety just to save money.

[GabriellaFitz]

As a mom with kids, safety in the car is my top priority. Tires can age if stored for more than a few months, so don’t exceed 6 to 10 months. Long storage makes rubber hard, increasing the risk of skidding when turning in the rain. I always check the DOT code for the production date and store them in a cool, shaded spot in the garage, away from direct sunlight. When kids are in the back seat, tire condition directly affects braking response—it’s best to buy fresh, in-season tires and use them right away. Regular maintenance checks by a technician give extra peace of mind; safety matters more than anything.