Do Spare Tires Expire? Everything You Should Know

Most drivers assume a spare tire lasts forever — especially if it’s never used. But spare tires do expire, and relying on an old or dry-rotted spare can be dangerous. Even if the tire looks brand new, time, sunlight, and weather slowly weaken the rubber.

Here’s everything you need to know about how long spare tires last, how to check their age, and when it’s time to replace yours.

Yes — Spare Tires Expire Even If They’re Never Used

Just like regular tires, spares are made of rubber that ages over time.

Rubber breaks down naturally due to:

• Oxygen exposure

• UV radiation

• Heat

• Moisture

• Temperature swings

Even if the tread is untouched, the tire can become unsafe because the rubber dries, hardens, and forms cracks.

Unused does not mean “good as new.”

How Long Does a Spare Tire Last?

Most tire manufacturers follow these guidelines:

• Safe lifespan: 6 years

• Maximum lifespan: 10 years (even if unused)

After 6 years, tires should be inspected carefully for aging.

After 10 years, tires should be replaced — no exceptions.

This applies to:

• Full-size spare tires

• Donut/temporary spares

• Rear-mounted spares on SUVs

All tires expire based on time, not just tread wear.

How to Check the Age of Your Spare Tire (DOT Code)

Every tire has a 4-digit DOT date code on the sidewall.

Example:

DOT 2618→ 26th week of 2018

This tells you exactly when the tire was manufactured.

If your spare is more than 6 years old, inspect it.

If it’s 10 years old or older, replace it immediately.

Why Rear-Mounted Spares Expire Faster

Spare tires mounted on the back of vehicles — like Jeep Wrangler, Ford Bronco, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Hummer, and FJ Cruiser — age much faster because they’re exposed to:

• Sun

• Rain

• Heat

• Snow

• Road salt

• Dust

• Debris

Exposure causes rubber to break down far quicker than on a tire stored inside the trunk.

This is why a high-quality spare tire cover matters:

It reduces UV and weather exposure and slows down the aging process dramatically.

Signs Your Spare Tire Is Too Old or Unsafe to Use

Replace your spare if you notice:

• Cracks in the rubber

• Dry rot around the sidewall

• Faded or gray rubber

• Hard, brittle texture

• Visible splitting

• Loss of flexibility

• Bulges or bubbles

• A date code older than 10 years

Even small cracks can lead to sudden tire failure.

Do Donut (Temporary) Spares Expire Faster?

Yes.

Donut spares have:

• Thinner rubber

• Higher internal pressure

• Smaller contact area

• Lower durability

Their rubber often dries out faster, and they are only safe for:

• Short distances

• Low speeds

• Temporary use only

Donut spares that are more than 6–10 years old should always be replaced.

Why Expired Spare Tires Are Dangerous

Old or expired spares can fail suddenly due to:

• Blowouts

• Tread separation

• Sidewall collapse

• Rapid air loss

This is especially risky because spares are typically used during emergencies — the worst time for another tire failure.

How to Make Your Spare Tire Last Longer

To slow aging and improve safety:

• Use a high-quality spare tire cover

• Keep the spare properly inflated

• Inspect it every few months

• Store indoors if unused for long periods

• Clean the cover and tire occasionally

• Replace old spares based on date code

A spare tire cover protects against the two biggest aging factors:

1. UV exposure

2. Weather damage

This simple addition can add years to the usable life of your spare.

Final Thoughts: Yes, Spare Tires Expire — So Check Yours Today

A spare tire is only helpful if it’s safe to use.

Even unused tires dry out, crack, and weaken over time — and once they hit 10 years old, they should be replaced no matter what.

Protecting your spare with a durable, USA-made SpareCover® reduces weather damage and helps your spare last as long as possible.

Check your tire’s date code today — your safety depends on it.