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11-20-24

How Long Do Tires Last in Storage: A Complete Guide

Ever thought about how long stored tires last before they need to be replaced? It's a big question for car owners who want their tires to stay safe and reliable, even when not in use. Learn more about tire longevity and storage best practices in this comprehensive guide.

tire storage in winter

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Tire Manufacturers Association say a tire is safe until it's 5 years old. But some say a tire can last up to 10 years with yearly checks, especially after 5 years. Understanding when to change your tires is crucial for maintaining safety.

Storing tires right can make them last longer. Clean and dry them before storing, use airtight bags or covers, and think about storing them upright or hanging. Following these tips can help your tires stay in good shape for when you need them.

Key Takeaways:

  • Tires can last between 6 and 10 years in storage, depending on storage conditions and environmental factors.
  • The NHTSA and Tire Manufacturers Association consider a tire 100% safe to use until it turns 5 years old.
  • Proper storage techniques, such as cleaning, drying, and using airtight covers, can extend tire lifespan.
  • Factors like temperature, humidity, sunlight, and ozone exposure can impact the longevity of stored tires.
  • Annual inspections by a specialist are recommended for tires in use for 5 years or more.

Factors Affecting Tire Longevity in Storage

When storing tires, several factors can affect their life and performance. Temperature, humidity, and sunlight are key elements to consider. They play a big role in keeping tires in good shape while stored.

tire maintenance

Temperature Control

Keeping tires at the right temperature is crucial. They should be stored between 60ºF and 70ºF. Temperatures above 77ºF or below 32ºF are not good for tires.

High heat, combined with oxygen, can make tires age faster. This is especially true in hot climates.

Humidity Management

High humidity can cause tires to degrade faster. It leads to cracking or "dry rot." To prevent this, tires need to be stored in a dry place.

The best storage space is cool, dry, and has low humidity. This prevents condensation and corrosion of tire metal layers.

Sunlight Exposure

Sunlight, especially UV rays, can damage tire compounds. This causes dry rotting and cracking over time. UV light makes rubber deteriorate, shortening tire life.

Tires should be kept away from direct sunlight. They should also avoid intense artificial light with high UV content. This prevents them from becoming brittle and less flexible.

Ozone from air pollution can also cause tires to degrade faster, especially in cities. Constant oxygen exposure makes tires harden and lose flexibility. This can lead to cracking and potential failure.

FactorIdeal ConditionsRisks
Temperature60ºF to 70ºFAccelerated rubber aging
HumidityLow, dry environmentIncreased outgassing, cracking, dry rot
Sunlight/UVAvoid direct exposureDry rotting, cracking, brittleness
OzoneStore away from ozone sourcesFaster rubber degradation

By managing these factors and storing tires in a cool, dry location, you can extend their life. This ensures they stay in good condition for when needed.

How Long Do Tires Last in Storage

The life of tires in storage varies based on several factors. These include the tire's quality, the storage conditions, and the tire type. Generally, most tires can last up to 6 years in storage under normal conditions. Some high-quality tires might even last up to 10 years.

Tire makers like Michelin say used tires can last up to 10 years. Avon suggests replacing tires after seven years.

Average Lifespan of Stored Tires

The lifespan of stored tires changes based on the tire type:

  • All-season tires usually last 3 to 5 years and can go up to 50,000 to 60,000 miles.
  • Winter tires last 20,000 to 40,000 miles and are worn out at 4/32" tread depth.
  • Summer tires can last 30,000 to 50,000 miles, depending on driving conditions.

Used tires with a lot of tread left can add up to 40,000 miles of extra mileage. But, neglecting maintenance can cut their lifespan in half.

Signs of Tire Deterioration

It's important to check your stored tires often for signs of wear. Look for:

  • Cracking or dry rot on the tire surface
  • Flat spots or uneven wear
  • Bubbles or bulges on the sidewall

Tires over 10 years old can fail suddenly because of rubber breakdown. Ari Henning showed that a 7-year-old set of Bridgestone RS10 tires still performed well on a track bike. This goes against the belief that tires should be replaced after five years.

tire deterioration signs

When to Replace Stored Tires

Tires need to be replaced when they're old or when the tread is less than 4/32". Most big tire brands, like Bridgestone and Michelin, say tires should last up to 10 years if well taken care of.

To keep your stored tires in good shape, store them in a cool, dry place. Make sure it's well-ventilated but away from sunlight. Avoid exposing them to UV rays, ozone, solvents, fuels, and lubricants. These can harm the rubber. Storing tires in a large, airtight plastic bag upright can help keep the rubber oils from evaporating and reduce stress.

Regular tire rotation and proper balancing are key for even wear. This helps extend the life of your tires, both in storage and on the road. By following these tips and keeping an eye on your stored tires, you can ensure they stay in good condition. They'll be ready to use when you need them.

Conclusion

Storing tires properly is key to keeping them in good shape. This is true for winter, summer, or all-season tires. Knowing how to control temperature, humidity, and sunlight helps keep tires lasting longer.

Climate-controlled storage units are the best place for tires. They keep the temperature right and stop moisture from building up.

Checking tires often, rotating them, and replacing them when needed is vital. Tires usually last 5-6 years or 55,000 to 80,000 miles, depending on how well they're cared for.

Storing tires upright and rotating them every few months helps prevent damage. Cleaning them before storage also helps keep them in good shape.

Proper tire storage saves money and keeps us safe on the road. In 2022, 562 deaths were caused by tire-related crashes. This shows how important it is to take care of our tires.

By storing and maintaining our tires correctly, we ensure safe driving. We also get the most value from our tire investment.

FAQ

How long can tires last in storage?

Tires can last 6 to 10 years in storage, depending on storage conditions. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says a tire is safest until it's 5 years old. But, some say a tire can last up to 10 years if checked yearly, especially after 5 years.

What factors affect tire longevity in storage?

Environmental conditions like oxygen, UV light, ozone, and heat damage affect tire life. Storage conditions like temperature, light, ozone, humidity, and deformation also play a role. Proper storage, like cleaning and using airtight bags, can extend tire life.

What is the ideal temperature range for storing tires?

Tires should be stored between 60ºF and 70ºF. Avoid temperatures above 77ºF or below 32ºF. The best storage space is cool, dry, and has low humidity.

Also check our Saint Albert, RAM Dealership

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10-31-24

How Long Do Winter Tires Last? A Complete Guide

Are you curious about how many seasons your winter tires will last in Canada's cold weather? Winter tires are key for safe driving on snowy and icy roads. But, their lifespan depends on several factors. Most winter tires should last five or six seasons with normal driving and care in Canada.

winter tires

Driving habits, road conditions, vehicle maintenance, and storage also play a big role in how long your winter tires will last. Understanding when to change your winter tires is crucial for maximizing their lifespan and ensuring your safety.

Winter tires are made with softer compounds for better grip in cold weather. It's best to switch to winter tires when it gets colder than 7°C (45°F) in Edmonton and Calgary, Alberta. All-season tires are good for wet conditions and light snow but not for heavy snow or ice like winter tires.

Most people drive about 12,000 to 15,000 miles a year. A good all-season tire can last three to five years, depending on how well you take care of it and your driving style. But, the NHTSA says driving on bad tires can make you three times more likely to crash. So, it's important to check your tires regularly, maintain them well, and replace them when needed for your safety.

Key Takeaways:

  • Winter tires usually last five to six seasons with good care and normal driving in Canada.
  • Change to winter tires when it gets colder than 7°C (45°F) for the best performance on snowy and icy roads.
  • Driving habits, road conditions, vehicle maintenance, and storage can affect how long winter tires last.
  • Regular tire checks and proper care are key to making your winter tires last longer and keep you safe.
  • Replace winter tires when the tread is less than 6 millimeters or after about six years, even if the tread looks good, because the rubber degrades over time.

Understanding the Lifespan of Winter Tires

Winter driving safety depends on knowing how long your winter tires last. Several things can affect their life, like how you drive, the roads, and keeping them in good shape. On average, winter tires can last from three to five years, or about 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers.

Factors Affecting Winter Tire Longevity

Driving too hard can wear out your winter tires faster. The condition of the roads also matters a lot. Things like rough roads, potholes, and chemicals can damage them quickly. Keeping your vehicle well-maintained can help your tires last longer.

The age of your tires is key too. Tires usually last about 6 years or 10 years from when they were made, whichever comes first. You can find the manufacturing date on the tire's sidewall. As tires get older, the rubber can break down, causing cracks and uneven wear.

Average Lifespan of Winter Tires

Summer tires usually last between 20,000 and 40,000 kilometers, and all-season tires can go from 40,000 to 80,000 kilometers. But winter tires typically only last 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers. This is because they use softer rubber to grip in cold weather, but it wears out faster.

To make your winter tires last longer, follow good maintenance habits. Check and adjust tire pressure regularly, rotate tires every 10,000 to 12,000 kilometers, and store them right when not in use. Also, get your vehicle's alignment and suspension checked and adjusted as needed to avoid uneven wear.

Knowing what affects your winter tires and maintaining them well can ensure they perform well and last longer. This way, you get the best value from your winter tires and stay safe on the road.

Inspecting Your Winter Tires for Wear and Tear

changing winter tires

Checking your winter tires regularly is key for safety and performance. Winter tires stay flexible in cold weather and have special treads for snow and slush. But, even top brands like BFGoodrich, Bridgestone Blizzak, and Michelin X-Ice can wear out over time.

Most Canadians drive a lot, which means winter tires might last four to five winters. Some tires are made to last up to 100,000 km. But, how long they last also depends on climate, storage, driving, and mileage.

Checking Tread Depth

Checking the tread depth is crucial. Winter tires should be 0.79 cm to 0.95 cm deep when new. As they wear, they grip less on snow and ice. Replace them when the tread is less than 4/32 of an inch.

The threshold for replacement is below 0.55 cm (7/32").

Identifying Cracks and Damage

Look for damage and uneven wear too. Cracks in tread and sidewall can weaken the tire. Potholes or debris can cause internal damage, leading to bulges or blowouts.

Dry rot, shown by cracking or discoloration, means it's time for new tires.

The Importance of Regular Tire Inspections

Regular checks are vital for safety and performance. Winter tires are a big investment, but they're worth it for safety on snowy roads. Keep tires clean and store them in a cool, dry place to extend their life.

By inspecting your winter tires often, you can spot problems early. This keeps you safe and extends your tires' life, saving you money.

Maximizing the Life of Your Winter Tires

To make your winter tires last longer, keep them properly inflated and rotate them often. Also, avoid driving too aggressively. Most tires last 5-6 years or 55,000 to 80,000 miles, but this can change based on how you drive and care for them. Winter tires usually last 12,500 to 25,000 miles, but they wear out faster if used in warm weather.

Proper Tire Inflation

Keeping the right tire pressure is key to making your winter tires last. Regular checks and maintenance, like checking pressure and wheel alignment, can help. Use a good pressure gauge for accurate readings, as car gauges might not be exact.

Rotating Tires Regularly

Rotating your tires every 8,000 to 10,000 km helps them wear evenly. This prevents damage and extends their life. Keeping tire pressure consistent, ensuring even tread wear, and regular rotations are all part of good maintenance.

Tire TypeAverage Lifespan
Winter Tires4 to 6 seasons
Summer Tires20,000 to 40,000 km (12,500 to 25,000 miles)
All-Season Tires40,000 to 100,000 km

Avoiding Aggressive Driving Habits

Driving too fast, braking hard, and taking sharp turns can wear out your tires quickly. How you drive affects your tires' life. Driving smoothly and carefully not only makes your tires last longer but also keeps the roads safer. In 2022, 562 people died in crashes caused by tire problems, showing why proper care and safe driving are so important.

The Impact of Driving Conditions on Winter Tire Wear

Winter driving conditions can really affect your winter tires. Things like temperature changes, road surfaces, and de-icing chemicals can all impact wear. Winter tires are made to handle snow and slush well, but harsh conditions can still wear them down.

how long winter tires last

Temperature Fluctuations

Going from cold to warm and back again can damage your tire's rubber. In Canada, it's best to put on winter tires when it's below 7°C (44°F). Using them in warm weather can cause them to wear out fast, so switch back to all-season or summer tires when it gets warmer.

Road Surface Conditions

The kind of road you drive on can also affect your tires. Rough roads wear them down faster than smooth ones. Salt and other chemicals on the road can also damage the rubber. Rinsing your tires after using these chemicals can help prevent damage.

Winter tires can make driving safer, even with the challenges of winter. They improve traction, stop shorter, and handle better on icy roads. A study in Canada showed that using winter tires can lower accident rates by 5% during winter.

To make your winter tires last longer, try to drive less in winter. Also, rotate them every 5,000 to 8,000 kilometers to ensure even wear. If you live in a milder winter area, all-weather tires might be a good choice. They can be used all year but don't last as long as switching between winter and all-season tires.

When to Replace Your Winter Tires

It's important to know when to replace your winter tires. This ensures you stay safe and perform well on snowy and icy roads. Tread depth and tire age are key factors to consider.

Minimum Tread Depth Requirements

Tread depth is a key sign of when to replace your winter tires. Transport Canada says to replace tires when they're almost 5/32" (4 millimetres) deep for snowy roads. Most tire makers and laws agree that 4/32" is the limit.

You can check tread depth with a Toonie. New winter tires start at 12/32". At 50% wear, they should be about 7/32" deep and need to be replaced.

Minimum Tread DepthReplacement Recommendation
5/32" (4mm)Transport Canada recommendation for snowy roads
4/32"Most tire manufacturers and provincial laws

Age of the Tires

Even with enough tread, old tires can be unsafe. Rubber gets brittle and cracks over time. Check the DOT code on the tire to find out when it was made. Tires should be replaced after about six years, even if they look good.

Drivers in Canada, covering 20,000 to 25,000km a year in winter, can get four to five seasons from good winter tires. But, driving habits, road conditions, and storage affect tire life. Front-wheel-drive cars need tire rotation every 10,000km to keep them in good shape.

How Long Do Winter Tires Last Compared to All-Season Tires?

Winter tires and all-season tires have different lifespans. Winter tires usually last three to five years. This depends on how you drive, the roads, and how well you take care of them. In Canada, winter tires can last four to six seasons with regular care. Some drivers might even get up to eight years out of them.

All-season tires, on the other hand, can last five to seven years. They are made to handle different road conditions well. This makes them good for many driving situations.

But, winter tires are better for driving in heavy snow and ice. They give you the best grip in harsh winter weather. Winter tires, like Yokohama's BluEarth Winter V905 and V906, are made to stay flexible in cold temperatures. This keeps your car stable and safe on slippery roads.

About â…“ of car accidents in Canada happen because of winter weather. In December 2017, there were 26,824 car accidents, with 14,000 causing injuries. Using winter tires is crucial to stay safe and can also help your all-season tires last longer.

Tips for Storing Winter Tires During Off-Season

Storing your winter tires right is key to keeping them in good shape. It helps them last longer and perform better when it's cold again.

Cleaning and Drying Tires Before Storage

First, clean your winter tires well. Get rid of salt, chemicals, and dirt that can harm the rubber. Then, dry them completely before you store them. Many people (66%) use airtight plastic bags to keep the rubber from drying out.

Choosing the Right Storage Environment

Choose a cool, dry, dark spot for your tires. The temperature should be below 7°C. Don't store them outside or where sunlight hits them hard, as it can damage the tires. A basement is a great choice because it keeps the temperature steady.

Storage MethodPercentage of Respondents
Upright position45%
Stacked on side21%
Hung on racks or hooks13%

Here are some extra tips for storing your winter tires:

  • Keep tires away from solvents, fuels, chemicals, or lubricants to maintain their integrity.
  • Avoid storing tires under pressure or tension to prevent cracking.
  • Use storage bags to protect tires from ozone and keep them away from motorized devices.
  • For tires with rims, consider hanging them from hooks or stacking them, rotating their positions regularly.
  • For tires without rims, store them on racks off the floor and rotate them every four weeks.

Before putting your winter tires back on, have them checked by a pro. By following these tips, you can make your tires last longer and work better when it's cold again.

Conclusion

Proper care for winter tires is key to safety and tire life. Winter tires usually last 4-6 seasons. But, driving habits, road conditions, and temperature changes can affect their life span. It's important to check your tires regularly, keep them inflated, rotate them, and avoid harsh driving.

Switch to winter tires when it gets cold, below seven degrees Celsius. This improves traction and control on icy roads.

Winter tires are made for cold weather but wear out fast on dry or warm roads. Taking them off when it gets warmer helps them last longer and saves money. They don't do well in warm or rainy weather because of their soft rubber. This makes braking on wet roads less effective.

FAQ

How long do winter tires typically last?

Winter tires usually last between three to five years. This depends on how you drive, the road conditions, and how well you maintain your vehicle and tires.

What factors affect the lifespan of winter tires?

Several things can affect how long winter tires last. These include your driving habits, the road conditions, and how well you maintain your vehicle. Also, the age of the tires plays a role.

How can I tell if my winter tires need to be replaced?

It's important to check your winter tires regularly. Look for cracks in the tread and sidewall. Use the "toonie test" to check the tread depth. It should be at least 6mm deep.

Driving over potholes or debris can also damage your tires. This can cause bulges, cracks, or even blowouts.

Also check our Saint Albert, RAM Dealership

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10-17-24

When To Change Winter Tires: Guide For Optimal Safety And Performance

Discover the optimal time to swap your tires and upgrade safety with our guide on When To Change Winter Tires. Read more for expert tips!
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