As already previously stated above: YES, tires do degrade over time. Moreover, "six years" is a common standard utilized when gauging the shelf life of tires in the consumer retail tire industry. And, with careful scrutiny, any consumer may visually detect degradation (overtime/aging) by obvious superficial, or deep spickled cracking on the outside, be it on the sidewalls, or, between the bead blocks. Furthermore, what you may NOT even notice is the actual peeling, or, ashey crumbling (deterioration) of the INSIDE of the tire carcass, NOR, even the actual deterioration of the bead seat seal, itself!

Tires are an oil/rubber by-product, and, will dry overtime. Period. Also, as a side note, old tires become a fire hazard for tire dealers who store tires in house, especially on wooden pallets. In fact, this is a very serious warehouse issue, whereby, most tire facilities are visited regularly by local Fire Marshalls for inspection, in an effort to regulate and maintain that such facilities DO NOT store tires on wooden pallets. Dry rubber and dessicated wood make for serious fodder to flame. Lastly, dry tires DO NOT experience temperature changes, high speed, nor, speed variations, cornering, flexing, and, braking stresses adequately. And, may then be conducive to road hazards (splitting, flat spots, deflated tires, or, blow out), etc. Be diligent, be aware, be safe. Best wishes.

 

Watch for circumferential cracking near the bead area. Watch for hair-line cracks at the shoulder. Standard warranty is usually 5 to 6 years for workmanship and material. Weathering and breakdown is going to happen whether you can see it or not. They still have a better and longer warranty than GM!!! Buying more tires more often is the obvious and best solution.

Support Your Local Tire Dealer,
Jay Lee

 

When I bought the Vette on 11-05-05 it had 8000 miles on it. The Vette now has over 9600 miles on it...It's been a joy

At this rate I'll be getting new tires by next November