When was the last time you had your tires replaces. No matter if it is summer or winter tires. The typical life cycle of any street tires are about 5 years. Once the tire was born, the rubber is destine to get hard, brittle, and loose grip. Even if you put very little mileage on it. The life cycle accelerates once you drive it. The warm temperature it creates when you drive your car; and cooling down when you park. Also know as heat cycle. Will shorten the life span of the tire. Ultraviolet lights accelerates the life cycle of the tire. When you expose your tire to the sun, it will cause the rubber to dry and crack like your skin expose to the sun for long duration.