Storage of tyres

[DougX]

I have just replaced my front 255/35/20 tyres to match the rear tyres - now all Dunlop Sport Maxx J - however both the front tyres still had 4mm tread on them on the whole circumference.
I need to store them, in case at some stage I need to use them again, but not sure where. I have no space in my garage or shed. I can leave them outside under a cover, but will this be any good for them? I would appreciate members views on this.

[MarkX]

Doug,

Tyres tend to deteriorate by being exposed to UV and the rubber drying out due to heat. A cool place out of the sum would work well. Also if you can stop the oils evaporating from the rubber then that will help prolong the life.

There's a very useful article on this topic on Kwik Fit's website https://www.kwik-fit.com/blog/how-to-store-tyres#

I hope that helps.

Mark

[mike020150]

Before worrying about how and where to store the tyres, it would be as well to check their production dates which will be stamped onto the tyre walls. Putting old tyres into storage may not be worthwhile as cracking/hardening seems inevitable on tyres aged from 7 years onwards. Tyres can easily be a year or two old when purchased, so don't go by their purchase date. Check the date on each tyre. Mike.

[DougX]

Good point, will check the age.

[DougX]

Checked the age of the tyres and found they are 4016, hence the 40th week of 2016. So they are 9 years old. However, I have checked the walls of the tyres and there are no cracks whatsoever. The tyres still feel supple, but I think they have remained in this condition due to the car only being used 6 months of the year and always garaged 12 months of the year. I think I will hold onto them as a back up. For the moment I have wrapped them in cling film in an effort to protect them.