How to Prepare Your Tires for Safe, Long-Term Storage

Before storing your tires, proper preparation ensures they stay in excellent condition throughout the off-season. A few simple steps during drop-off can make a huge difference in tire longevity and performance when it's time to use them again.

Clean Your Tires Thoroughly

Start by washing your tires with soap and water to remove all dirt, brake dust, and road grime. These contaminants can degrade rubber over time, especially in a closed storage environment. Use a soft brush to scrub the sidewalls and tread. Dry them completely before storage—moisture trapped on the surface can cause mold and deterioration.

Inspect for Damage

Examine each tire carefully for:

• Cracks or splits in the rubber
• Punctures or embedded objects
• Uneven wear patterns
• Bulges or separation in the sidewall
• Low or excessively high tread depth

Identifying problems before storage helps you understand the condition of your tires and plan for repairs if needed. Professional storage facilities will note these details in their inspection records.

Check and Adjust Tire Pressure

Inflate your tires to the manufacturer's recommended pressure—not the maximum pressure on the sidewall. You can find the correct pressure on a sticker inside your driver's door jamb or in your vehicle's manual. Slightly higher pressure (add 2-3 psi) helps compensate for natural air loss over weeks or months. Never overinflate, as this can damage the tire structure.

Apply Tire Protectant

Before storage, some people apply a rubber protectant to prevent cracking and oxidation. If using one, choose a product specifically designed for tire storage and follow the application instructions carefully. This step is optional but can provide extra protection during long storage periods.

Organize and Label

Keep track of which tires go with which vehicle and which position they came from (front left, rear right, etc.). Take photos of your tires or write down details about wear patterns. This helps when reinstalling them later and provides a record for the storage facility.

With these preparation steps complete, your tires are ready for safe, professional storage. The network takes care of the rest, monitoring conditions and protecting your investment until you're ready to drive again.