Tread Still There: Are Old Tyres Safe? Ageing Explained

Plenty of tread left: does that make an old tyre safe?

Scope: general recognition of tyre ageing; service life depends on the vehicle and tyre manufacturers; no universal age limit is set

Separate wear from ageing

NHTSA points out that tyres age, and mileage and tread are not the only basis for judging them. A car that isn't used much still needs attention to tyre age and condition. Don't ignore long periods parked, poor storage or visible changes because the tread "looks deep", and don't judge your tyres' remaining life from a photo online. ^[1]

Keep a record for every tyre

This article suggests keeping purchase receipts, fitting dates and photos of the production markings, numbering each tyre in use by wheel position and keeping a record for the spare too, so it isn't forgotten after long periods unused. Update the record when tyres are rotated, so a note that just says "all tyres" doesn't let an older tyre slip through. To read a production code, ask the tyre shop to confirm it, and check the inspection and replacement advice from both the vehicle and tyre manufacturers. ^[1]

When you can't tell the condition

If there are cracks, bulges, exposed cords or repeated pressure loss, stop treating "keep an eye on it for another month" as a maintenance plan and arrange a professional assessment; for serious damage, call for roadside assistance. If there is no record of age, have the tyres inspected rather than guessing a reassuring figure. The workshop's conclusion should record its basis, the wheel positions affected and the action taken, not end with a single line saying "still usable". ^[1]

Sources

[Source 1] NHTSA: Tires
https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/tires
Verified: 2026-10-03; page publication date not confirmed.

This article contains information-organising suggestions from the editorial team; it is not a manufacturer repair procedure.