If you live in the UAE or anywhere that experiences long, intense summers, you know how unforgiving high temperatures can be on tyres. Summer tyres are built to handle warm conditions and dry roads, but even the best ones can wear out quickly if not cared for correctly. This is especially true when your car is stored outdoors. Constant exposure to sunlight, heat buildup, and sand can shorten tyre life and affect performance.
Whether your car is parked in a driveway, under partial shade, or in an uncovered outdoor garage, small changes in how you store and maintain your tyres can have a big impact. Below are 13 practical tips to help your summer tyres stay in top shape for longer.
1. Park in the Shade Whenever Possible
Sunlight is one of the biggest threats to tyre health. UV rays gradually dry out rubber, causing cracks and weakening over time. If you do not have a fully enclosed garage, park under a shade sail, carport, or near a building that blocks direct sunlight.
2. Use Tyre Covers for Added Protection
Tyre covers are a simple yet highly effective investment. They protect against UV rays and keep tyres cooler. Choose heavy-duty, weather-resistant covers for the best results, especially if your vehicle stays parked outdoors for long periods.
3. Keep Tyres Free from Sand and Dust
In hot, dry climates like the UAE, sand and dust build-up can scratch sidewalls, block cooling, and trap heat. Rinse tyres regularly with clean water and avoid harsh cleaning chemicals that could damage the rubber.
4. Maintain Correct Air Pressure
Improper air pressure is a quick route to premature tyre wear. In summer, heat causes air inside tyres to expand, so check tyre pressure at least every two weeks. Always measure when tyres are cold and follow the PSI recommendations from your vehicle’s manufacturer.
5. Rotate Tyres on Schedule
Regular tyre rotation ensures even wear and prolongs tyre life. Even if you are not driving much, rotate every 8,000 to 10,000 kilometres to keep performance consistent across all wheels.
6. Avoid Prolonged Parking on Hot Asphalt
Hot asphalt radiates heat directly into your tyres, which can cause cracks in the sidewalls. If you must park in an outdoor garage with asphalt flooring, place wooden planks or thick rubber mats under the tyres.
7. Wash After Rain or Humid Conditions
Although UAE summers are mostly dry, occasional rain and humidity can mix with dust to form a layer of grime on your tyres. This traps moisture and heat, so give tyres a quick wash to maintain their condition.
8. Inspect for Cracks, Bulges, and Flat Spots
Tyres stored outdoors face more wear from environmental exposure. Inspect sidewalls regularly for cracks, bulges, or flat spots, and address any issues before they develop into safety risks.
9. Move the Vehicle to Prevent Flat Spots
When a vehicle remains stationary for too long, tyres can develop flat spots. If your car is parked outside for more than two weeks, roll it slightly forward or backward to change the load point.
10. Invest in Quality Summer Tyres
The right tyres can make a huge difference in durability and performance. Premium tyres, especially those built for high temperatures, resist heat damage better than budget models. For example, performance sizes like 275/55r20 are designed with special rubber compounds that maintain grip and flexibility even under intense heat.
11. Drive Smoothly on Hot Days
Sudden acceleration, hard braking, and sharp cornering on hot asphalt put unnecessary stress on your tyres. Adopting smoother driving habits not only improves safety but also helps your tyres last longer.
12. Keep Tyres Away from Chemicals and Fuels
If you store items like fuel, oil, or cleaning agents in your outdoor garage, keep them away from your tyres. Chemical exposure can weaken rubber compounds and compromise tyre strength.
13. Schedule Seasonal Tyre Inspections
At the start and end of each summer, get your tyres checked by a professional. They can assess tread depth, inspect for sidewall damage, and confirm that your tyres are road-ready for the season ahead.
Why These Tips Work for Hot-Weather Tyre Care
Heat is the biggest enemy of tyre longevity. While summer tyres are designed for warm-weather performance, constant exposure to extreme heat can cause them to harden, crack, and lose grip. By parking smart, cleaning regularly, maintaining correct air pressure, and avoiding unnecessary stress, you can extend the life of your tyres significantly.
In hot regions where outdoor garages are common, these steps become even more important. Simple preventative care ensures your tyres deliver safe, reliable performance for many seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How often should I check my summer tyres during hot months?
Check them every two weeks, including tread depth, cracks, and air pressure.
2. Do tyre covers really make a difference?
Yes. They protect against UV rays, reduce heat buildup, and slow down rubber degradation.
3. Is parking on concrete better than asphalt in the summer?
Yes. Concrete retains less heat, which is gentler on your tyres compared to asphalt.
4. How can I prevent flat spots if my car is parked for weeks?
Move it slightly every week or use tyre cradles to distribute the load.
5. Should I switch to all-season tyres in hot climates?
Not necessarily. Summer tyres are optimised for heat but still need regular care to last.
Conclusion
Your summer tyres face tough conditions when stored outdoors in hot climates. Constant exposure to sunlight, heat, and dust can shorten their lifespan, but by following these 13 practical tips, you can protect your investment and enjoy consistent performance. Whether you are preparing for daily commutes or long desert drives, caring for your tyres ensures safety, comfort, and peace of mind during the hottest months of the year.