Do spare tyres need changing regularly?

I've read that tyres need changing as they age even if the mileage is low and tread is ok. Does the same apply for spare tyres (or space saver ones)? I was just curious as while I think it's checked at service (is that correct?) but it's never been raised that the tyre needs changing.

Asked on 23 August 2023 by Leo

Answered by David Ross

A service may check the condition of your spare tyre, but generally speaking you should treat it the same way as you would the other tyres on your vehicle. The maximum recommended lifespan of a tyre is 10 years, although a spare is not subjected to the same variations of temperature and UV damage as one on the outside of the vehicle. We would suggest checking its condition for cracks or other signs of ageing every year once it is five years old.

Tags: spare tyres tyre damage tyre age

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