Car Tires: tire ageing

Tires age even if they have not been used or have only been used occasionally. Cracking of the tread and sidewall rubber, sometimes accompanied by carcass deformation, is evidence of ageing. Old and aged tires must be checked by a tire specialist to ascertain their suitability for further use. Tires fitted to vehicles such as caravans and boat trailers which are parked for long periods will tend to age and crack more quickly than those which are used and run frequently. In such circumstances it is important to jack the weight off the tires and to cover them so that they are protected from direct light. Particular attention must be paid to spare tires which may be old or aged in which case they should be used with caution and be replaced as soon as possible.