When to Replace Tires

After Five Years: Increased Inspection Recommended

After five years of service, tires should be thoroughly inspected at least once a year by a trained tire professional. These inspections can help identify signs of aging or damage that may not be immediately visible.

This recommendation applies even if the tires appear to be in good condition and have not yet reached the treadwear indicators.

Ten Years: Maximum Recommended Service Life

As a precaution, Michelin recommends replacing tires ten years after their date of manufacture, regardless of remaining tread depth or apparent condition. This recommendation includes spare tires.

Over time, the materials within a tire can degrade, which may affect durability and performance even if the tire has seen limited use.

Proper Care Can Help Extend Tire Life

Routine maintenance plays an important role in maximizing tire lifespan and supporting overall tire safety. This includes:

• Maintaining recommended inflation pressure

• Rotating tires at recommended intervals

• Keeping wheels properly aligned and balanced

• Following vehicle manufacturer maintenance guidelines

For vehicles equipped with original equipment tires, always follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations for tire replacement.

While tread depth is an important indicator, it is not the only factor to consider when determining whether tires should be replaced. Michelin recommends paying attention to the following signs of wear or damage.

Treadwear Indicators

Tires are equipped with built-in treadwear indicators located within the tread grooves. When the tread surface wears down to the same level as these indicators, 2/32 inch (1.6 mm), the tire has reached its minimum tread depth and should be replaced.

Sidewall Damage

Cuts, cracks, bulges, or blisters on the sidewall may indicate structural damage. Sidewall damage cannot be repaired and may increase the risk of tire failure.

Any tire showing visible sidewall damage should be inspected immediately by a trained tire professional.

Vibrations or Changes in Ride Feel

Unusual vibrations, pulling, or changes in handling may indicate uneven wear, internal tire damage, or other tire-related issues. These symptoms can occur even when tread depth appears acceptable.

Persistent vibration or handling changes may also be related to wheel alignment or balance issues, which should be inspected to determine whether tire replacement is necessary.

Decline in Performance

Reduced grip, longer braking distances, or decreased traction, especially in wet conditions, may signal that a tire is no longer performing as intended, even if legal tread depth remains.

Performance decline can result from tire aging, uneven wear, or internal material degradation.

To determine a tire’s age, locate the DOT (Department of Transportation) code on the tire sidewall.

The final four digits of the DOT code indicate the week and year of manufacture.

For example, a DOT code ending in 3520 means the tire was manufactured during the 35th week of 2020.

While tire age alone does not determine whether a tire is serviceable, it is an important factor when considered alongside wear, condition, and performance indicators.