How to Store Your Winter Tires Properly
With the change in seasons, many vehicle owners are excited to transition from winter tires to all-season or summer options! But remember, taking care of your winter tire storage is just as crucial as putting them on right. If you don't store them properly, they can wear out faster and lead to performance hiccups or even expensive replacements down the road.
This blog dives into the importance of properly storing your winter tires and shares some simple tips to keep them in great shape. You'll find this helpful for enjoying a safer and smoother ride when winter comes back around!
Storage Matters
Winter tires are designed to tackle the chilly, snowy, and icy road challenges that Canadian winters bring. When it's time to switch to all-season or summer tires for the warmer months, storing your winter tires correctly is crucial for extending their lifespan and maintaining optimal performance.
Taking the time to store your tires properly will mean they’re all set for when the chilly weather comes back around! On the flip side, if they aren't stored right, the rubber can wear down, which may impact how well they work and even pose some safety issues, leading to more serious damage over time. By ensuring your tires are stored correctly, you can save money on those early replacements and really make the most of your investment in winter tire safety performance.
Step-by-Step Guide on Storing Winter Tires
Clean Your Tires Before Storage
Before storing winter tires, clean them to remove dirt and road salts that can cause wear. Use mild soap and water to scrub the tread and sidewalls. Allow them to dry completely to prevent moisture build-up and mould.
Inspect Tires for Wear and Damage
While cleaning, inspect your tires for cracks, punctures, or uneven tread wear. If any issues are found, replace them before storage. Also, check and adjust tire pressure according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Store Tires in a Cool, Dry, and Dark Place
Store tires in a cool, dry, and dark environment. Heat, humidity, and sunlight can degrade rubber. Ideal temperatures are 50°F to 70°F (10°C - 21°C). Avoid sunlight and heat sources like radiators. A basement, garage, or stable storage unit is best.
Use Proper Tire Positioning
- Mounted Tires (on rims): Store upright and rotate every 2-3 months to prevent flat spots.
- Unmounted Tires (off rims): Stack horizontally, avoiding over-stacking to prevent deformation. Stacking allows for air circulation and maintains tire shape shape.
Cover Tires to Protect Them from Dirt and UV Rays
Use tire covers or plastic bags to protect your tires from dust, dirt, and UV rays during storage. This added protection will help maintain the rubber’s integrity and ensure your tires remain in top condition.
Storing Tires at Home vs. Professional Storage Services
While you may be tempted to store your winter tires yourself, there are pros and cons to both DIY storage and professional tire storage services.
DIY Storage:
- Pros: It’s convenient and inexpensive. You have complete control over your tires' storage, and it’s easy to do if you have a suitable space.
- Cons: Storing tires improperly, such as in a humid or hot area, could cause them to deteriorate faster. Additionally, stacking or storing tires incorrectly can lead to damage or deformation.
Professional Tire Storage Services:
- Pros: Professional services provide optimal conditions for tire storage, including climate-controlled environments. These services can also inspect your tires for damage and ensure they’re properly stored to extend their lifespan. Plus, some tire storage services even offer tire rotation, pressure checks, and cleaning as part of the package.
- Cons: There’s an added cost, but it may be worth the investment for long-term tire care.
Tire Maintenance Before and After Storage
Taking care of your tires before and after storing them is super important! Before you tuck them away, ensure they're properly inflated, cleaned, and checked for any issues. Once you're ready to put them back on, take a moment to inspect them for any damage, ensure they're inflated just right, and check the tread depth so you can drive safely.
Plus, having your tires professionally inspected before winter rolls in is a great idea, just to make sure they’re in perfect shape.
At Go Auto, we're here to help with all your tire maintenance needs to prepare you for the winter roads. Schedule your tire inspection with us today!
Protect Your Tires, Protect Your Wallet
Proper winter tire storage is essential for maximizing tire lifespan, performance, and safety. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure your winter tires stay in optimal condition, saving you money and stress down the road.
Before you put your tires away for the season, check them for wear and damage. If you’d rather leave the storage to the experts, Go Auto is here to help. By storing your winter tires properly and maintaining them with care, you’ll be ready for next season’s driving challenges with confidence and safety.
Need new tires? Browse our selection and get the best fit for your vehicle.
Time for a tire swap? Book an appointment with Go Auto Service.
Looking for a new ride? Check out our latest inventory.
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