How to Store Tires Properly: Complete Seasonal Storage Guide
Why Proper Tire Storage Matters
If you swap between summer and winter tires seasonally, proper storage of your off-season tires is essential for maintaining their condition and performance. Tires left in improper storage conditions can degrade quickly, develop flat spots, crack, and lose their performance characteristics. With proper storage, your seasonal tires can last many years and perform like new when you reinstall them.
Table of Contents
Rubber is a complex material that reacts to environmental conditions. Exposure to UV light, ozone, extreme temperatures, and certain chemicals accelerates rubber degradation. Additionally, the weight of tires and how they are positioned during storage affects their shape and structure. Understanding these factors helps you create optimal storage conditions.
Preparing Tires for Storage
Before storing your tires, take time to prepare them properly:
Cleaning
- Remove dirt and debris: Wash tires with soap and water to remove road grime, brake dust, and salt
- Dry completely: Allow tires to air dry thoroughly to prevent moisture-related issues
- Skip tire dressing: Contrary to popular belief, tire dressing products can actually accelerate rubber degradation during storage
- Clean the wheels too: If storing mounted tires, clean the wheels to prevent brake dust corrosion
Inspection
- Check tread depth: Measure and record tread depth to plan for replacements
- Look for damage: Inspect for cuts, bulges, cracks, or embedded objects
- Check for uneven wear: Note any wear patterns that might indicate alignment or suspension issues
- Mark positions: If tires showed specific wear patterns, mark their positions for reinstallation in the same location
Optimal Storage Conditions
The ideal storage environment protects tires from the elements that cause degradation:
Temperature
Tires should be stored in a cool, stable environment. Ideal temperatures range from 32°F to 77°F (0°C to 25°C). Avoid locations with extreme temperature fluctuations, such as uninsulated garages or outdoor sheds. Consistent, moderate temperatures slow the aging process of rubber compounds.
Light Exposure
UV radiation from sunlight and fluorescent lights accelerates rubber degradation. Store tires in a dark location or cover them with opaque material. Even indirect sunlight over time can damage tire rubber.
Humidity and Moisture
Store tires in a dry environment. High humidity can promote rubber deterioration and corrosion of wheels if tires are mounted. Avoid storing tires directly on concrete floors, which can transfer moisture. Place a barrier such as plywood, carpet, or a tarp between tires and concrete.
Ozone Protection
Ozone, produced by electric motors, generators, and certain appliances, attacks rubber and causes cracking. Keep tires away from electric motors, furnaces, sump pumps, and other ozone-producing equipment.
Storage Methods
Unmounted Tires (Tires Without Wheels)
If storing tires without wheels, follow these guidelines:
- Store vertically: Stand tires upright rather than stacking them flat
- Rotate periodically: Turn tires slightly every month to prevent flat spots
- Avoid hanging: Hanging unmounted tires can distort the bead area
- Use a tire rack: If possible, store on a rack designed for tire storage
Mounted Tires (Tires on Wheels)
Tires mounted on wheels have different storage requirements:
- Reduce pressure: Lower tire pressure to about 15 PSI to reduce stress during storage
- Store flat or hanging: Mounted tires can be stacked flat or hung on hooks through the wheel center
- Limit stack height: If stacking, limit to four tires maximum to prevent distortion of the bottom tires
- Consider bags: Place each tire in an airtight plastic bag to reduce oxygen exposure
Where to Store Tires
Consider these storage location options:
Climate-Controlled Indoor Storage
This is the ideal option. A basement, climate-controlled garage, or spare room provides stable temperatures and protection from UV light and weather. This option maximizes tire life.
Standard Garage or Shed
Acceptable if you take precautions. Cover tires to block light, elevate them off concrete, and ensure they’re not near ozone-producing equipment or chemicals.
Professional Tire Storage
Many tire dealers and auto shops offer seasonal tire storage services. This option provides optimal conditions and frees up space at home. Services typically include mounting and balancing when you return for tire swaps.
Avoid These Locations
- Outdoors: Exposure to weather elements accelerates degradation
- Uninsulated buildings: Extreme temperature fluctuations damage rubber
- Near chemicals: Gasoline, solvents, and lubricants attack rubber
- Near electric motors: Ozone production damages tires
Duration Considerations
Even in ideal storage conditions, tires age. Keep these timelines in mind:
- Seasonal storage (3-6 months): Typical off-season storage duration with minimal concerns if conditions are appropriate
- Extended storage (6-12 months): Still acceptable but check tire condition carefully before use
- Long-term storage (over 12 months): Have tires inspected by a professional before use
- Maximum age: Regardless of storage conditions, most manufacturers recommend replacing tires after 6-10 years from the date of manufacture
Bringing Tires Out of Storage
When it’s time to reinstall your stored tires:
- Inspect thoroughly: Check for any signs of degradation, cracking, or damage
- Check for flat spots: These usually work themselves out after driving a few miles
- Restore proper pressure: Inflate to the recommended pressure for your vehicle
- Have them balanced: Balance may have shifted during storage
- Monitor after installation: Pay attention to any vibration or handling issues during initial driving
Conclusion
Proper tire storage is a simple but important aspect of tire maintenance that protects your investment and ensures safety. By following these guidelines, your seasonal tires will remain in excellent condition and provide years of safe, reliable service.