You can get tire dressing for $5-25 (£3. 57-17. 86) from most auto stores. It’s sometimes labeled as “tire shine” or “tire care. " Tire dressing shields your tires from UV rays, one of the main causes of dry rot.

If you drive a car, truck, or SUV, you can gauge this by sticking a quarter into one of the grooves of the tire. If the top of George Washington’s head is flush with the top of the tire, it’s time to start shopping for tires. [6] X Trustworthy Source Consumer Reports Nonprofit organization dedicated to consumer advocacy and product testing Go to source For a larger vehicle like a semi-truck, use a penny. If Abraham Lincoln’s face is completely visible, it’s time to replace your tires. [7] X Research source The casing on tires is usually only good for 5-6 years. Then, the tires need to be replaced. [8] X Expert Source Howard FleischmannAutomotive Tire & Repair Specialist Expert Interview. 4 June 2021.

Even if you have a vintage car that you never drive, try to get it out of the garage and drive it for a few miles once a month. This will help the antioxidants work most effectively and keep your tires safe.

If you don’t have a garage or car port, most automotive stores sell inexpensive tire covers, which protect your tires from UV rays. Also consider parking your vehicle inside a parking garage, instead of parking it on a curb. Not only will you keep your vehicle out of the sun, but you’ll be doing your tires a favor by keeping them away from the curb. They also sell covers that you can cover up your tires with to protect them. [9] X Expert Source Howard FleischmannAutomotive Tire & Repair Specialist Expert Interview. 4 June 2021.

Make sure to store any extra tires indoors and out of the sun, as this will greatly prolong their lifespan. Don’t store them in room where electric motors are run, though, as ozone produced by sparking brushes can also cause dry rot.