I've always had to replace my tires because the tread wears out within a few years or less. Probably several people here smoke their tires within a few months...
But I've got an old civic that we don't drive much, and the tires still have enough tread to be safe, but I think they may be ten years old or so, and look a little cracked (just a little).
Is there a point where you should replace your tires because they're too old, whether they still have some tread or not? And if so, how do you know when it's time? New tires aren't cheap.
Thanks!

 

depending what type of driving you do, it may be a good idea to change the tires if you feel they may not be safe to drive on anymore.

old rubber is usually hardened (hence why they crack between the tread blocks) and will likely not grip (especially when it comes to emergency braking) when you need it most.

it might be a good idea as these are safety items that should be maintained by replacing every few years since the rubber will break down over time, especially if they are in the sun a lot.

 

For the most part, we use 6 years from the date of manufacture (as determined by the DOT code) as the latest we would recommend installing a new tire for regular use. Once on the car, we start to get concerned once the tire is beyond nine years old as the rubber compunds and internal (structural) parts of the tire have been thorugh hundreds of heat cycles and can break down rapidly. Any obvious signs of trouble (bubbles, blisters or bulges, or large cuts, cracks or other significant damage from road hazards in the tread, shoulder and/or sidewall areas) naturally are good signs that the tire is done.


Age is also a concern when shopping for new tires;


Not too long ago, the tv "show" 20/20 did a piece on replacement tires, and how some shops have installed tires that are approaching ten years of age (from date of manufacture) without discussing the issue with the customer.

We have received hundreds of emails and many more phone calls regarding the issue, including many customers "demanding" the tires they receive from us be less than 12 months old in extreme cases. Below is our take on the issue, perhaps it may help those that are concerned .

This is the primary article here

And some background info here


Hope this helps !

 

Great links and info! Thanks!
I'll have to look at my tires and see how old they really are, and I'll think about replacing them...