Which tire protectant?

Joined
Apr 17, 2012
Messages
3,696
Location
West Michigan
Not interesting in tire dressing, per say, but in tire protectant. Is 303 still the best option? Anything better? I drive my 2011 about once a week and put less than 2000 miles on it last year. Tires will DEFINITELY age out before wearing out but I wouldn't mind buying some time if possible.
 
This is like 303 that stays on better. Not glossy at all. Great stuff.

Tire Dressing, Tire Protectant, No Tire Shine, No Dirt Attracting Residue 32oz Natural Satin/Matte Finish, Aircraft Grade Rubber Tire Care Conditioner, Better Than Automotive Products https://a.co/d/hAE7dr3
 
I love 303. However, I’ve tried it on exterior parts including trim and tires, and it just doesn’t last long. Any water it goes away and streaks. If it’s sat in a dry climate it would do fine.
 
I have used 303 for years with good results. In recent years I have used Rubber Care as it is cheaper. I apply monthly. When I had cracking on the inner side of the tires many years ago I started applying 303/Rubber Care there every oil change (~6-8 months). I guess the ozone gets to the inner side as it doesn't get any UV there like the outer sun side gets. It is a hassle but I have greatly extended the time before cracking appears by several years to about the time I replace the tires at 6 years or so.
 
I bought some a few years ago that's supposed to help dry rot for a tractor, but I never used it, forgot what I did with the jug even 🤣
 
303 used to make a specific product for the purpose -- Tire Balm.

It was a snot-like product like Meguiars' Endurance, and had a more satiny finish, but was discontinued.

I've come to consider tire dressing products as cosmetic products that under most circumstances are unnecessary; tires have some degree of UV protection built in, and in other circumstances, like an RV parked outdoors for long periods, there are probably better ways to protect them from UV.
 
I like Backfire Tire Gel - good UV protection and leaves a nice finish. Not a huge fan of 303 for tires, just not its purpose.
https://www.autogeek.net/blackfire-...FvLYSt2F3lplutDToQRRr33eIE6lZdkVf6VE9F1QYYq0b

IMG_5533.webp
 
I mixed Griots and Aero Cosmetics 60/40 as I found the Griots to be too shiny and the Aero Cosmetics to be too blah. It’s the right mix for me.

I’ll post a pick when I get back home.
 
I do prefer a shiny tire protectorate in spray form for ease of application but am concerned about the vehicle used for spray that could cause drying or other issues affecting tire life. Which tire spray would be considered the best for this purpose?
 
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