The average life span of a tire is determined by the conditions a tire can be exposed to throughout its life. This can include; temperature changes, sun exposure, storage conditions, usage, and maintenance schedules. Determining a tire’s exact life is difficlut due to the fact there is no way to account for the level of influence any single factor may have on a tire. However, you can refer to the vehicle and tire manufacturer's replacement recommendations:
- Vehicle manufacturer's recommend tire replacement at 6 years.
- Tire manufacturers warranties expire at 6 years.
- Tire manufacturers recommend replacement at 10 years, regardless of tread depth.
TIRE AGING PROCESS
Research conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that a tire will age at a faster pace in excessive heat. Warmer climates and exposure to direct sunlight can accelerate the aging process by increasing oxidation. Furthermore, tires equipped on vehicles that are stored outdoors, such as trailers or RVs, will age faster than tires on vehicles stored in a garage.
Tires will age faster if they are improperly cared for or abused. If tires are driven on while overinflated or underinflated, internal damage may occur that are not always detected through visual inspection. Impacts to the tire, punctures, and improper repairs may also cause damage that could lead to a decrease in the lifespan of the tires. These occurrences weaken their integrity and contribute to premature aging. To reduce these risks, make sure your tires are correctly inflated and regularly maintained.
Less Than 6 Years Old:
These tires should provide dependable performance. Treadwear may change traction capabilities in adverse weather conditions. For maintenance, inspections which include air pressure checks should be performed monthly. Rotate tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles and balance them every 12,000 to 16,000 miles.
6-10 Years Old:
If your tires are improperly maintained, they will likely reach the end of their service life at or before 6-10 years. Tires of this age may be more worn and have less tread resulting in reduced traction, stability, and puncture resistance in all weather conditions. They may also face an increased risk of cracking or structural changes caused by environmental exposure. For maintenance, you should perform a monthly air pressure check and the frequency of inspections should be increased. At this stage, it is recommended to replace them soon.
Over 10 Years Old:
Any tires over ten years old are too weak to ensure safe driving. At this age, it is imperative that you replace your tires.
WHEN SHOULD I REPLACE MY TIRES?
If you drive frequently, you are more likely to wear out your tire tread before the rubber deteriorates. Logging over 12,000 miles per year, the average rate for an American driver, may wear tread down to an unusable level within three to four years. A heightened level of use may necessitate replacement before age and environmental exposure compromises the rubber compound’s integrity.
Advancements in tread life have made tire aging a more pertinent issue. Some of today’s most advanced tires have a 90,000 mile treadwear warranty. If equipped on vehicles driven infrequently, these tires may require replacement before the tread completely wears down. Tires equipped on intermittently used RVs, vehicles driven exclusively on weekends, or equipped on collector vehicles all face an increased risk of accelerated aging. Be prepared to replace these tires within 6-10 years, no matter how much remaining tread they possess.
Unfortunately, variables and a lack of some visual signs of deterioration make it difficult to precisely determine when your tires need replacement due to deterioration, not tread wear. Some automakers state that tires should be replaced as soon as they turn six years old. However, tire experts argue that tires can last anywhere from six to ten years when they are properly stored and cared for. You must decide exactly when to replace your aged tires based on a variety of individual factors. Mileage, condition, and maintenance received all contribute to the tire’s safety and usability. You should replace tires if you think, or can visibly see that one of these factors may have compromised the tire’s integrity.
EXTENDING THE LIFE OF YOUR TIRES
In order to ensure maximum tire life, it is important to have your tire maintenance performed regularly. Follow these steps to improve the life of your tires:
- Check your tire inflation pressure every 3,000 miles. This will not only extend the life of your tires but also help with vehicle handling, acceleration/deceleration and fuel efficiency.
- Rotate your tires every 5,000 - 7,000 miles to promote even treadwear.
- Get your wheel alignment checked, as specified in your vehicle's owner's manual, or if you begin to feel the vehicle pull to any one side or the other.
- Check your tires regularly for any road debris or damage.
- Inspect your tires for any irregularities in treadwear, as these could indicate problems with your vehicles alignment or inflation.
- Be sure not to exceed a tire’s maximum load capacity, as this puts excessive pressure on your tires.
Any Questions???
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