13 Year Old Tires?

[Scott7512]

just checked the date code on my cars tires and found out that they are 13 years old. They have less than 3000 miles on them. They were on the car when I bought it. Are they safe? I don't see any cracks on them and they have plenty of tread. I have seen that 10 years is the max for tire life. Something about rubber deterioration. What would you guys and gals do?

 

[stykthyn]

If you're just driving around town they "might" be ok. If you have any hwy driving where they will get up to temp I would definitely get new ones.

 

[Scott7512]

Mustang week at myrtle beach this year from West Virginia. 8 hours and 500 miles one way.

 

[Shakerhood]

I would buy new tires for sure, not worth risking crashing the car over them.

 

[smkshw]

Mustang week at myrtle beach this year from West Virginia. 8 hours and 500 miles one way.

Man you guys so lucky!....I can only watch vids of that!....out here in bc our cruises don't compair!

 

[madspeed]

definitely spend the dime and replace them if you are doing any travel other than local short drives. I blew three tires on a camper once because they were old

 

[madspeed]

withthat being said, my 83 Fiat is still sitting in thegarage with its original tires :eek

 

[Scott7512]

Thanks for the info. Now I have something to show my wife justifying new tire and rims.

 

[Mustang5L5]

Not supposed to mount tires older than 6 years, and all tires 10 years or older should be replaced regardless of miles.

The rubber deteriorates just from sitting. UV light and oxygen breaks it down. Remember, rubber is an organic compound. You are basically driving on tree blood. How long do you expect it to last before it breaks down?