Rules of storage and operation of tires

Foremost, the air temperature is of paramount importance. Tires can be stored in the temperature range from -30°C to +35°C, but they must be warmed up before storage. They can be stored in an insulated garage or at home. How to store winter tires? Tires are designed to withstand a range of temperatures, but proper storage is essential to maintain their condition — especially for winter tires.

In what manner can one store tires in the garage?

Keep tires in the garage cool, dry, and clean. In case of unsatisfactory conditions at home, opt for a professional tire storage facility. Frequently, these locations double as tire service centres and feature climate-controlled spaces for long-term storage.

If you're wondering how to store tires in garage, start by avoiding exposure to direct sunlight, chemical solutions, and power tools. To keep tires dry, store them in containers such as shelves, pallets, or even thick cardboard. Additionally, if the tires remain mounted on a vehicle during storage, consider what to put under tires when storing car — for instance, plastic or rubber mats — to prevent flat spots and moisture absorption from the floor.

Rules for storing and placing tires

The maximum width of 205 mm should be used for tires without rims, and they can be fitted as vertical stacks. No more than 8 tires should be stacked together and rotated every month to prevent deformation. Never place tires directly onto concrete — instead, use a buffer such as cardboard, rubber mats, or wood. If you plan to keep a car parked for an extended period, using supports or substitutes instead of tires is advisable — especially during winterization or long-term vehicle storage. Additionally, always check the treadwear rating on tires before storing or reusing them to assess their condition and expected lifespan.

The correct placement for tires with rims is vertical, placed side-by-side in a row. To avoid flat spots, rotate them by 90° every 1–2 months. Ensure at least 5 cm of space between each tire to allow for air circulation. Also, keep in mind what is the minimum tread thickness for passenger car tires — typically around 1.6 mm — to ensure safety when putting them back on the road.

Suspended Tire Storage

The central hole or rim edge can serve as a hangar for tires that are mounted on wheels. Storage of winter tires is dependent on whether they are placed on rims, as hanging is strictly prohibited and sidewalls and beads will be deformed.

Preparing Tires for Storage

Thorough cleaning is necessary before putting tires away for extended periods. Oil, road salt, and grime are among the substances that can break down rubber. Dry them completely after washing. Reduce the tire pressure and use tire bags or covers to maintain the quality of rubber, especially for larger wheels. This aids in maintaining their tire traction rating for future use. Before storage, it’s also important to consider how often should you check your tire tread — regular inspection helps detect wear early and ensures safe reuse. Lastly, the best way to store tires in garage includes placing them in a cool, dry area away from sunlight, using shelves or pallets, and avoiding contact with concrete floors.

Deciding On The Right Th tires For Your Motor Vehicle

A variety of factors, such as climate and road conditions, driving habits, and vehicle configuration can all impact the selection of a suitable tire for your car. Assess the specifications of the vehicle's manufacturer and pay attention to their performance ratings. Toughness, temperature, and treadwear are all factors that can be used to predict tire grades and behavior in various situations.

For tires, balancing treadwear with grip is key; knowing when your tire's tread wears can help you save money. The tire's wear rate will be reduced, but its grip strength may decrease with an increased rating. Consistently choose tires that meet seasonal requirements and safety guidelines. Understanding how does tire tread and tire pressure relate to safe driving is also essential — proper tread ensures traction, while correct pressure helps maintain stability, braking efficiency, and overall vehicle control.

Long-term car storage and tire management

When storing your car for an extended period (known as vehicle conservation), either remove the tires or lift the vehicle to prevent flat spots. Adjust the air pressure or keep the tires slightly inflated while protecting them from sun and moisture. This is especially important if you're wondering how long tires can sit in a garage. If handled correctly, tires can last for up to six years in storage — but only if their tire traction rating and structural integrity remain intact throughout.

Tires should be rotated or removed if you're uncertain, so speak to a tire specialist. By doing this, you can prevent premature tire wear and keep your tires in good condition.

Seasonal Tire Usage Tips

The performance of tires varies greatly depending on the season. Tires experience increased friction and heat in summer, while they are cold and wet during winter. Year-round maintenance involves adjusting tire pressure and checking tread depth. Maintaining proper handling and safety is aided by this.

Why the tread and tire pressure is important for their safety. Proper pressure ensures even wear, and adequate tread enhances grip, reducing the risk of hydroplaning or skidding.

Legal Requirements and Regional Differences

Some European nations mandate winter tire usage during specific seasons, while others require it only in certain climates. The use of stud tires on highways may be restricted in specific areas, such as Switzerland or Germany. Before changing tires during the season, make sure to follow your local laws. It’s also important to consider tire grades, as different regions may have legal or recommended standards regarding tire performance, especially in terms of traction, temperature resistance, and treadwear.

Tire Tread and Maintenance

Safety is often underestimated due to the thickness of the tread. How deep should the tread be in passenger car tires? In most countries, the measurement is approximately 1.6 mm. If this is not reached, the braking efficiency can be greatly reduced, leading to more accidents.

Keeping an eye on your tread is essential to avoid accidents. At what intervals should you examine the tread of tires? A good time to schedule is once a month and prior to any extensive travel. To gauge depth, utilize a tread gauge or the penny method. Additionally, always consider temperature resistance tires, especially if you drive in areas with extreme heat or cold — this impacts tread durability and performance. And once tires are removed, the best way to store tires in garage is in a dry, cool place off the ground and away from direct sunlight to maintain rubber integrity and performance.

Tire Storage & Maintenance: What Every Car Owner Should Know

Here's a quick guide to keeping tires in good condition:

Dry tires before storing — moisture can damage the rubber over time.
Store in a cool, dry, and dark place.
It is not recommended to place them near heat sources or chemicals, as this can accelerate rubber degradation. Why? Because high temperatures and chemical exposure reduce structural integrity.
Stack in either an upright (for tires with rims) or flat position (for tires without rims).
Perform rotations — in rows or stacks — at regular intervals, ideally once a month.
Use covers or storage bags to protect from dust, UV rays, and moisture.
When stored outside the house for a long time, tires may deflate slightly.

If you’re wondering how long can you store tires in a garage, the general rule is up to six years if stored properly. Additionally, knowing what does tire temperature rating mean is essential — it indicates how well a tire can dissipate heat at high speeds, which affects its safety and longevity. Understanding these guidelines and the significance of tire temperature rating can help you maintain your tires' health, performance, and durability