As winter comes to a close, one of the most important things you can do for your vehicle is swap out your winter tires for summer or all-season tires. But where do you store your tires? And how long do tires last in storage?
In this article, we’ll discuss the factors that impact tire longevity, where to store them, and tips for getting the most out of your tires. These tips apply to anyone with winter tires–whether those tires are intended for your ATV, motorcycle, or classic car.
Factors Affecting Tire Longevity in Storage
Tire longevity in storage is influenced by several factors, including temperature, humidity, and sunlight exposure. Tire manufacturers and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) agree that these environmental conditions can fast-track the aging process of tires, especially in warmer coastal climates.
Factor #1: Temperature Control
Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can accelerate tire aging, leading to premature deterioration. Temperatures above 77ºF or below 32ºF AREN’T ideal for tire storage, so always store tires within the 60ºF to 70ºF range.
Factor #2: Humidity Management
High humidity levels can speed up tire degradation through increased outgassing, resulting in cracking or “dry rot.” The ideal tire storage space is a cool, dry location with low humidity levels (which will prevent humidity-related tire degradation).
Factor #3: Sunlight Exposure
The sun’s UV rays can break down tire compounds, resulting in dry rotting and cracking over time. Keeping your tires away from direct sunlight exposure and intense artificial light (with high ultraviolet content) is crucial. Direct UV exposure can cause the tires to become brittle and less flexible.
Proper Tire Storage Techniques
Implementing appropriate storage techniques can markedly prolong your tires’ shelf-life. From cleaning and drying before storage to choosing the right storage method, each step plays a crucial role in maintaining the performance and appearance of your tires.
Step #1: Clean and Dry Before Storing
Ensure your tires are clean and dry before putting them into storage. Use soap, water, and a tire brush to remove dirt, grime, and brake dust from each tire. After cleaning, ensure the tires are completely dry and free of moisture to prevent mildew or corrosion.
Step #2: Store in Airtight Bags or Covers
Storing tires in airtight plastic bags or tire covers can protect them from changes in humidity. These airtight bags also prevent tire rubber deterioration.
Step #3: Consider Upright or Hanging Storage
Store tires vertically or hang them by the rims to reduce stress and prevent tire distortion. Note: unmounted tires should always be stored upright.
Signs of Tire Deterioration
Early detection of tire deterioration signs can help prevent tire failure and uphold safe driving conditions. Visual signs of tire deterioration include cracking, flat spots, bulging, or bubbles on the tire surface.
Cracking and Dry Rot: Dry rot is a big problem, no matter what type of tires you store. Dry rot is characterized by cracks in the rubber on the tread, sidewall, and around the hubcap.
Flat Spots: A “flat spot” is a term used to describe flattened tread. This problem primarily occurs with classic cars, RVs, and ATVs that sit in storage for prolonged periods of time. Flat spots can occur when the weight of a stationary vehicle begins to weigh down the tires. (This is especially likely when cars are stored over lengthy periods, i.e., when a vehicle remains parked for several weeks or months at a time).
Bubbles and Bulges: Bubbles and bulges on tires signal internal layer separation, a condition amplified by weaknesses in the tire’s sidewall and triggered by factors such as impact damage, manufacturing defects, or driving on underinflated tires. Driving on a tire with visible bubbles or bulges increases the risk of a sudden tire blowout, which can result in loss of vehicle control.
Tips for Extending Tire Life in Storage
Even when you’re storing tires in a safe, climate-controlled self storage unit, you can take a few extra steps to prolong your tires’ life.
Tip #1: Regularly Inspect Tires
Checking tire pressure once every few months can prevent the formation of flat spots. Note: Underinflated tires are more susceptible to flat spots, so regularly check your tire pressure.
These brief inspections are not only a great opportunity to check each tire’s pressure levels but will allow you to catch irregularities, such as bubbles on the tire surface, that are not always immediately visible to the naked eye.
These inspections can be triggered by a specific event or performed on a routine basis.
Tip #2: Rotate Tire Position
Did you know that rotating tires can reduce the risk of flat spots? To avoid flat spots on mounted tires, the vehicle should be pulled forward or backed up to rotate the tires.
Prior to storage, make a small mark on the tires with chalk or a marker to indicate the starting position. You can use this as a reference when you move your vehicle later.
Tip #3: Use Jack Stands or Tire Cushions
If you’re planning on putting a vehicle into long-term storage, lifting it on jack stands can help prevent tire degradation. Jacking up your vehicle moves the weight from the tires to the jack stands, which will decrease the likelihood of flat spots.
If you don’t want to use jack stands, you can invest in some tire cushions, though they aren’t as effective over prolonged periods of time.
When to Replace Stored Tires
To keep yourself safe when driving, it’s important to replace stored tires when they reach a certain age or you notice deterioration
Car manufacturers like Ford, Nissan, and Mercedes-Benz recommend replacing tires six years after their production date, regardless of tread life.
On the other hand, tire manufacturers such as Continental and Michelin suggest that tires should be replaced no later than the 10-year mark, with the recommendation for annual inspections starting after the fifth year, and up to six years for some tire models.
While tires can last up to 10 years in the right conditions, you might have to replace them sooner if you notice signs of degradation or wear on the treads.
A tire’s tread depth is a critical indicator of its condition; a depth of 4/32” or deeper is generally considered good, while 3/32” suggests that tire replacement should be considered soon.
Tires also have tread wear indicator bars molded into them; when these bars are flush with the adjacent ribs, the tire has no more than 2/32” of tread remaining and should be replaced.
Image Courtesy of bridgestonetire.com
Proper Storage Conditions are Key to Longevity
No matter if you’re stashing away your winter tires for next year, or have multiple sets for ATVs, motorcycles, and other vehicles, proper storage is a must.
An insulated, climate-controlled storage area is your best bet in preventing dry rot or sidewall cracks, as it keeps the tires safe from the elements and dramatic temperature fluctuations.
If you’re short on space in your garage or basement, you should consider renting a storage unit for your tires. Storage marketplaces like Neighbor.com have local, safe units available for all your tire storage needs. Their peer-to-peer marketplace pairs vetted hosts with people looking for affordable extra space for all their belongings.
