How and where should I store my tyres in Vienna?

Tyres are made from durable material, so it is easy to think that no special care is needed when storing them. But that is a misconception. By taking a few factors into account, you can keep your tyres in optimal condition for longer, use them for more seasons, and save money. 

Here you can read how to store your summer and winter tyres, and whether it makes a difference if you are storing complete wheels or tyres without rims.

Storing tyres correctly prevents damage to the carcass and tread. The following aspects play an important role: 

• General condition of the tyres
• Correct tyre pressure
• Marking the individual wheels
• Environmental conditions of the storage location
• Positioning of the tyres

Tyre storage: Check the general condition 

Before storing your tyres, carefully inspect them for damage to the tread and sidewalls. 

Measure the tread depth. If the tyres are worn down and have reached the minimum tread depth (1,6 mm), you must no longer use them. Bulges on the sidewall and other damage can also be problematic. If in doubt, consult a professional.  

If you want to store complete wheels, take a close look at the rims. Treat any rust spots so they do not spread. 

Increase tyre pressure before storage 

Unused tyres lose air. Increasing the tyre pressure by 0,5 bar above the manufacturer's recommended pressure before storage will ensure everything stays in good order. 

Marking wheels

An important tip: Marking your wheels allows you to rotate them by axle next season (i.e. from front-left to rear-left, etc.). You should do this roughly every 10.000 kilometres to ensure even tyre wear. 

What is the best way to mark wheels? Use chalk or a wax crayon to mark FL, RR, etc. This marking leaves no permanent trace. 

Pay attention to environmental conditions

Store tyres in a dark, dry, and cool place. Direct sunlight can affect the rubber compound. Always store tyres in a clean space on a surface free from solvents, grease, oil, and other dirt.

Storing tyres: Upright or flat? 

It depends on whether you are storing rubber tyres or complete wheels. 

• Tyres: upright (rotate the tyres by a quarter turn every six weeks)
• Complete wheels: flat and stacked on top of each other (on the floor, on a tyre tree, or on a wall bracket)

Tip: Even if you store tyres safely in a storage unit, you should replace them after eight years at the latest, even if they still have sufficient tread depth. 

Conclusion

Proper tyre storage pays off twice over: You extend the lifespan of your tyres and maintain their road safety. 

Tyre storage options: 

• In a storage unit
• At garages or tyre dealers