I have a set of Goodyear Eagle GS-C tires (245/50-ZR16) that are now 10 years old. The tires still have plenty of tread left, and so no signs of cracking at all on the treads, in-between the treads, and the sidewalls.

I read several articles stating it isn't good keeping tires for a long period of time, but I like the looks of these tires more than any new tire that would replace them.

Given the tire's age, should I be replacing them? If so, any suggestions (the only decent replacement I saw is the BF Goodrich Super Sport A/S). Thanks!


EDIT -- The car is a show car / nice-weather driver (and is garage-kept), therefore does not see snow at all (very little rain, not by choice either).

I would contact Goodyear and ask them.

I called Goodyear, they tell me there is no shelf life on the tires, and pretty much told me the age does not matter as much as poor maintenance of the tires (tire pressure, making sure the car has been moved at least once a month, etc). Suggested that if I am concerned, to go to a tire store and have them take a look.

I did look again, there is an extremely small amount of "cracking" between the treads (and I mean an EXTREMELY small amount). Not sure if it's even cracking that I am seeing.

EDIT -- they also tell me if there are signs of "dry-rot", that I would see cracking on the sidewalls (which there is zero).

I'd keep them then.

I disagree. Tires that are 10 years old have definently seen better days and should be replaced. Tires are the only thing between your life and the road, pretty cheap insurance. That's my personel opinion, if you want my professional one, here it is. Tires even if the car is garaged away from UV rays no matter how good they appear on the outside tend to deteriorate on the inside where you can't see. Tires that old are prone to blowing out, ecspecially at high speed For safety's sake replace them ASAP Dave

I'd get rid of them. Much past 3-4 years, the tires are shot. Once the resins that make up the tire have evaporated, there is nothing left but a husk. The tire will seem to drive OK, till you need it, then watch out. I spun an 8 year old Corvette, with 5,000 mile original tires, in the middle of I-405 in Los Angeles during rush hour (the OEM tires were Goodyear 255/60/15) by simply crossing the lane divider white lines.

There are much better tires made today than those 15 year old designs.

LOL,well there ya go!

Well, decided on the BF Goodrich G-Force Sport tires. SOOOOOOO much better than the Goodyears! I still can't believe how much better the traction, steering response, handling, all of it!

Here are some pics (gives an idea on what these tires look like on our cars).

Tires and wheels look killer man!