Originally Posted By: CapriRacer
Just so everyone understands:
The rubber in tires deteriorates over time. It is highly temperature dependent. That's why many folks recommend replacing tires when they are 6 years old. My best estimate is that those recommendations are based on the weather in Phoenix.
But those of us who track tire failures know that cooler parts of the world don't have as high of failure rates - nor do those failures occur as quickly. Nevertheless, most tire manufacturers recommend replacing tires at 10 years of age.
- AND -
Everyone should be aware that a tire failure at high speed CAN result in a fatality! The risk of that happening is low, but it is there regardless. While it may appear alarmist to harp about old tires, it's that severe consequence that is driving the concern.
I'm sure you can understand that some of us are a bit skeptical of such recommendations from the very companies that benefit from the replacement of tires based on age alone.
It would be useful to see data on tire failure (particularly if compiled by a more objective third party)that included all relevant factors in the failure. A 15 year old tire that fails did not necessarily fail due to its age. Speed, inflation, loading, road damage, chemical exposure, improper mounting/repair, etc. are all contributory (if not primary) causes of failure. Do you have any such data to share?