Hi Justin,
I'm not a tire expert, but I think there's a lot more to this idea than just
replacing the tires after six years. They're probably basing their
replacement duration figures using worst case scenario. If the car spends
most of its time in the garage and isn't driven very often, then six years
is probably a tad bit premature. Wear and tear caused by driving, and
ultraviolet rays from the sun [deteriorating the rubber] while sitting
outdoors will cause the tire to age much quicker.
I'm sure the "Firestone Wilderness" tire fiasco had a little bit to do with
this decision.....
Scott Helms
----- Original Message -----
From: "Justin" <spartan0199@hotmail.com>
To: <healeys@autox.team.net>
Sent: Friday, May 27, 2005 12:31 PM
Subject: 6 year max tire life?
> What do the tire experts think about the article below? Is this a real
> safety concern or are the OEM's trying to shield themselves from
> lawsuits? The tires on my Healey have to be nearly as old as I am (well
> maybe not that old...). What about my mom, she only drives ~ 3,000
> miles a year, her tire tread is going to last awhile.
>
> Justin
> Ypsilanti, MI
> 1961 BT7
>
> Beginning in 2006, all Ford and Chrysler vehicles will highlight threat
> of older rubber.
>
> By Jeff Plungis / Detroit News Washington Bureau
>
> WASHINGTON -- DaimlerChrysler AG is advising U.S. customers to replace
> new car and truck tires after six years, even if there is no sign of
> wear, beginning with 2006 models.
>
> The warning will be placed in Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep owners' manuals,
> following a practice the company established in Europe. A few 2005
> Chrysler Group models carry the warning.
>
> "Tires and spare tire should be replaced after six years, regardless of
> the remaining tread," the warning reads. "Failure to follow this warning
> can result in sudden tire failure. You could lose control and have an
> accident resulting in serious injury or death."
>
> Ford Motor Co. began warning customers to replace older tires on its Web
> site a few weeks ago. It will also include a warning with all 2006
> models.
>
> The companies are responding to new research that suggests tires can
> degrade rapidly as they get older, regardless of how much they are used.
>
>
> Chrysler spokesman Max Gates said the tire warning was added as part of
> an ongoing review of safety information provided in owners' manuals.
> "We're trying to get our customers to focus on tire maintenance," Gates
> said. "It is important to raise this issue. It's often overlooked."
>
> The moves by Ford and Chrysler represent a break from the U.S. tire
> industry, which insists the research about tire aging is inconclusive.
> The Rubber Manufacturers Association says there is no set period after
> which all tires represent a safety risk.
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