What Everybody Needs to Know About Tire Storage

The arrival of spring is bittersweet time for motorists. On one hand, winter driving is behind us. On the other is the bi-annual ritual of swapping your tires. When it comes to tires, a little TLC can go a long way. So if you’ve been storing tires outside, hauling them around in the trunk of your car, or just tossing them in the garage, follow these tips to help you extend the life of your stored tires.

Keep it clean Prior to storing the tires, clean the surface on which the tires are going to be stored. Make sure the surface is clear of any grease, gasoline or other debris that could cause the tire to deteriorate. 1 Also clean the tires with soap and water to remove brake dust, dirt, and grime

The darker, the better Avoid direct sunlight. The sun’s ultraviolet rays and heat are detrimental to rubber.

Check ’em out This is a good time to inspect the condition of your tires, looking for cracks and deterioration of aging rubber. Check the tire depth; if it is close to or at the wear indicator, you are going to need a new set of tires for the start of the next seasonal change over.

Bag ‘em up After you’re tires are clean and dry, store them in large, dark, plastic bags. Avoid any moisture in the bag and remove as much air as possible. Close the bag tightly with tape to create a personal space for each tire. This helps to reduce oil evaporation.

Put ’em away Store tires in a cool, dry location. Garages, shed or attics often see a wide range in temperatures as well as precipitation and humidity, so A basement or climate-controlled area is your best bet. Keep your tires away from electric motors, furnaces, and sump pumps as they are sources of ozone.

Stand up tall The best way to store tires is standing upright. The stress from stacking them can lead to distortion and damage.

Winter tires are an investment, so it’s important that you take good care of them. That way you will be prepared to take on our harsh Northwestern Ontario winters with confidence. To see if you are eligible for our winter tire discount, contact one of our expert advisers today.