Do Tires Expire? How to Know When to Replace Your Tires
Learn if tires expire, how to check their age with the DOT code, and when to replace them for safety and performance.
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Yes, tires do expire. Over time, the rubber degrades even if the tires are not used. It is generally recommended to replace tires that are over 6 years old, even if they appear to be in good condition. Check the DOT code on the tire's sidewall to find the manufacturing date. Proper storage and regular maintenance can extend their lifespan, but ultimately age will affect their safety and performance.
FAQs & Answers
- How can I tell how old my tires are? You can find the tire's manufacturing date by checking the DOT code on its sidewall, which shows the week and year it was made.
- Do unused tires still expire? Yes, even unused tires degrade over time due to rubber aging and should be replaced after about 6 years.
- Can proper storage extend tire life? Yes, storing tires properly and performing regular maintenance can help extend their lifespan but won't prevent aging completely.