Proper tire storage

If you use different tires for different seasons, you might have a few questions. What’s the best way to store tires? Do I need tire storage bags? How long do tires last in storage? Well, your instincts are sharp. There are certain things you should know before you tuck your tires away for an extended period. Otherwise, you might not find them in the same shape that you left them. Here’s a quick checklist:

Step 1: Remove your tires

Unless you have a second set of wheels, you'll need to swap out the tires on each of your wheels. For proper dismounting and mounting of both sets of tires we strongly recommend that this should be done by a trained tire service professional. To maintain your planned tire rotation pattern, mark either the position the tires came from or the position they will need to be remounted when it’s time to re-install your tires.

Step 2: Clean your tires

After being on the road for a season, there’s no doubt your tires will need cleaning. Salt, brake dust, dirt, oil, grime and gasoline are just a few of the things you could expect to find on your tires. So, before your tires hibernate, make sure to give them a good scrubbing. All you need is soap, water, a soft bristle brush and a towel.

Note: Don’t apply tire dressing, tire gloss, or any petroleum based products when storing your tires. These chemicals will damage the tires.

Step 3: Find the right location

Be sure to store your tires in a stable climate. You don’t want it to get too hot or too cold wherever you put them. That means, unfortunately, the shed in your backyard is a bad idea. A climate-controlled garage or basement is an ideal storage area that can help prevent your tires from cracking.

Step 4: Find the right position

Avoid stacking your tires. Storing them vertically is the best method because it prevents prolonged stress caused by tires sitting on top of each other.

Step 5: Set the proper air pressure

If your tires are mounted to the original wheels during their storage period, make sure to re-check the air pressure and inflate to the recommended tire inflation pressure prior to reinstalling on your vehicle.