Did you know that tyres don't have an expiry date? Debunking a myth

In the automotive world, concern over tyre expiry has been a constant topic of debate and even a source of uncertainty for many drivers. However, leading brands such as Bridgestone, Continental, Goodyear, Michelin and Pirelli are here to debunk this deep-rooted belief, clarifying that no regulation supports the idea of an expiry date for tyres. Even so, their useful life is not very long and requires some attention.

Because they are a highly influential factor in road safety, it is of vital importance that consumers are informed about how to keep their tyres in optimal condition, as well as about the proper storage of spare sets. Looking after your tyres means looking after safety on the road.

Road safety depends to a large extent on the condition of a vehicle’s tyres. For this reason, it is crucial to follow some recommendations, especially regarding passenger cars, 4x4s and vans. After five years of maximum use, annual inspections by specialists are advised to assess their condition.

Periodic checks

These inspections should not replace routine maintenance checks, which include:

1. Monitoring the inflation pressure.
2. Examining the wear.
3. Examining possible deformations.

As a precaution, if tyres have not been replaced within ten years of their manufacture, it is recommended to replace them with new ones, regardless of whether they have reached the legal minimum tread depth limit.

It is also of vital importance to understand how to read the markings on tyres. The manufacturing date is coded in four digits, the first two being the week of manufacture and the last two the year, thus giving a countdown of a maximum of 10 years until replacement.

Where should we store our tyres?

Another detail to bear in mind is proper storage of tyres to ensure their good condition, durability and effectiveness. This applies both to new tyres and to those stored seasonally. The main manufacturers offer three important tips for proper storage:

1. Keep the tyres in a well-ventilated place, dry and at a moderate temperature, avoiding direct exposure to sunlight and the elements.
2. Keep tyres away from any chemical substance or hydrocarbon that could damage the rubber.
3. Avoid proximity to heat sources or electrical discharges that could affect the integrity of the tyres.

It is essential to remember that, if wheels and tyres are stored assembled, the latter must remain inflated and ideally stacked one on top of the other for optimal storage and preservation.