Trailer tire longevity?

[MrJeep]

I bought a used car hauler trailer to haul my TJ. It's from the 90's and very well built but also light (1300#). I'm pretty sure the one I was borrowing was over 2000# so this will help a lot with the JT.
The tires look fantastic but have 2017 date codes. From what I read, I should probably replace them?
Any thought from the community on tires and longevity appreciated.

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[Labswine]

They're only six years old. If you feel safer with new tires, then I would suggest, for your own comfort, replacing them.

I do not remember the rule for tire life after manufacture but around six years sounds to me like it's time to replace even if the tread depth is still good. It's sidewall cracking from age you need to be cognizant of.

 

[Gren71]

I’ve always been told between five and six years for trailer tires. Or as soon as they show signs of wear or rot, like minor cracking in between the treads or on the walls, they need to be replaced.

 

[LouisvEarlleJT]

I wouldn't be afraid to use them. If they were showing cracking then sure, replace, but on low mile use tires (like trailers, or weekend cars) I go with a 10-year rule.

 

[MrJeep]

Good thoughts, yeah, no signs of anything like cracking or rot which is pretty good for 6 years sitting outside. That's why I'm on the fence.

 

[LouisvEarlleJT]

Totally get that. Only you can determine what you're comfortable with!

 

[Wheelin98TJ]

If you decide to replace them, Goodyear Endurance is what I hear most often being recommended.

I haven't ran them, but they'll likely be the next trailer tire I buy.

 

[be77solo]

OMG 2017 is old?? Sorry OP, not a knock on you, but tires from that era are now old??

 

[CreepyJeepy]

Trailer tires have hard lives, it's smart of you to think about it.
I replaced mine due to uneven wear last summer they were 2017 tires.
(my trailer had a bent axle)...

But I would say if they are being cared for, pressure is good, they don't have rot, I would prob push to 8 years life then replace.

 

[Wheelin98TJ]

OMG 2017 is old?? Sorry OP, not a knock on you, but tires from that era are now old??

6 year old tires should be replaced has been thrown around for quite a while now. I probably first heard it 20 years ago.

 

[be77solo]

6 year old tires should be replaced has been thrown around for quite a while now. I probably first heard it 20 years ago.

yeah, I get it, you just make me feel old is all

 

[whiteglad]

Mfg say trailer tires should be replaced after 4-5 years. My thinking is it is not about the cost of the tires, it is about the value of what is on the trailer, and maybe even your life. I also don't run tires until they are almost bald; they give much better traction and are safer when newer.

 

[Barnaby’sdad]

With how cheap trailer tires are…given the age of those…I’d replace them for peace of mind.

Yeah, you probably don’t “need” to replace them (if they look ok), but it beats being that ding dong that’s broken down on the side of the interstate because their clapped out old trailer tires finally had enough.

 

[Hootbro]

Liability reasons I would say change them at the industry standard recommendation of 5-6 years.

That being said, I would bet a cold beer over half the independent contractors running trailers probably have 7+ year old tires on them.

 

[Barnaby’sdad]

Liability reasons I would say change them at the industry standard recommendation of 5-6 years.

That being said, I would bet a cold beer over half the independent contractors running trailers probably have 7+ year old tires on them.

Someone that tows for a living is likely going to be replacing the tires based upon condition and wear, rather than age. I.e. I drove commercially. Never heard age brought up for tractor or trailer tires.

They run tires until they literally NEED to be replaced. Either they blow out and replace on the spot when needed or when it’s noted that they will no longer pass inspection. I.e. Tread depth.

In more extreme cases, in particular independent operators, you have folks riding around with tires that literally don’t pass inspection and are unsafe. LEO’s that focus on commercial vehicles keep an eye out for particular carriers, as some have a reputation for not keeping up on their vehicle and trailer maintenance.

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