How to Recycle Tires
Rubber tires containing steel belts and carbon black that can be recycled into playground surfaces, automotive parts, and alternative fuel. The US generates 270 million scrap tires annually, with over 85% now recycled or reused, representing a major environmental success story.
- 1Remove from wheels/rims if possible (significantly increases recycling value)
- 2Clean off excess dirt, mud, and debris with water
- 3Check for and remove any embedded nails, screws, or metal objects
- 4Inspect for sidewall damage or tread wear to assess reuse potential
- 5Keep tires dry during storage to prevent mold and deterioration
- 6Stack similar-sized tires together for efficient transport
- 7Check manufacturer take-back programs before disposal
- Tire retailers (Discount Tire, Firestone, Goodyear, NTB)
- Auto service centers and quick-lube shops
- Scrap tire dealers and recycling facilities
- Municipal transfer stations (may charge $2-10 per tire)
- Walmart, Costco, and big box retailers with auto centers
Many tire retailers charge $2-5 per tire disposal fee but are legally required to accept them with new purchases. Never stockpile tires outdoors - they collect water and breed mosquitoes. Most states prohibit tire disposal in landfills.
Scrap tires take 50-80 years to decompose and can catch fire, burning for months while releasing toxic chemicals. Recycling recovers 1.5 billion pounds of steel annually and creates valuable products: playground surfaces last 3x longer than wood chips, crumb rubber reduces sports injuries, and tire-derived fuel burns cleaner than coal while generating electricity for 2.4 million homes.
- Retread quality tires for continued road use (saves 70% of materials)
- Donate used tires with good tread to mechanics or individuals
- Use for farm/ranch applications (livestock feeders, silage covers)
- Creative reuse: planters, swings, gym equipment, erosion control
Accepted
- Passenger car tires (all sizes)
- Light truck and SUV tires
- Motorcycle and scooter tires
- Trailer tires and temporary spare tires
- Run-flat and performance tires
- Winter/snow tires and all-season tires
Not Accepted
- Large truck tires over 24.5 inches (require commercial recycling)
- Agricultural or heavy equipment tires
- Tires filled with foam or tire sealant
- Tires still mounted on wheels (unless paying wheel recycling fee)
- Cut or shredded tire pieces
Estimated value: $1-5 per tire without rims; $0-2 disposal fee at retailers; up to $10-20 for quality used tires with good tread
Manufacturer/Retail Take‑Back
- Carbon black (potential carcinogen in manufacturing)
- Steel belting and wire
- Synthetic rubber compounds
- Sulfur compounds from vulcanization
- Various chemical additives and accelerants
Can I legally throw away old tires?
No, most states prohibit tire disposal in regular trash or landfills due to environmental and fire hazards. Tires must go to designated recycling facilities or authorized disposal sites.
What's the difference in value between tires with and without rims?
Tires without rims are worth $1-5 each for recycling, while tires on rims may have $0-2 disposal fees due to separation costs. However, aluminum rims have separate scrap value of $0.50-2.00 per pound.
How do I know if my used tires are worth selling vs recycling?
Check tread depth: 4/32" or more may have resale value ($10-50+ each). Below 2/32" should be recycled. Also check for sidewall damage, age (avoid tires over 6 years old), and even wear patterns.
What products are made from recycled tires?
Playground surfaces, running tracks, rubber mulch, automotive parts, road construction material, railroad ties, dock bumpers, and tire-derived fuel for power generation.
Can I recycle tires with tire sealant or foam inside?
Generally no - sealants and foams contaminate recycling equipment. These tires typically require hazardous waste disposal. Check with facilities before bringing foam-filled tires.
Is it better to retread tires or recycle them?
Retreading quality tire casings saves 70% of materials vs new tire production and is environmentally superior. However, only structurally sound truck tires are typically retreaded - most passenger tires go to recycling.
Why do tire shops charge disposal fees?
Processing and transportation costs for proper recycling are significant. Fees typically range $2-5 per tire and ensure proper environmental handling rather than illegal dumping.
Can I burn old tires for heat or disposal?
Never burn tires yourself - it's illegal and extremely toxic. Tire fires produce dangerous chemicals including benzene, lead, and sulfur dioxide. Only authorized tire-derived fuel facilities can safely burn tires.
How are truck tires different for recycling?
Large truck tires (over 24.5") require specialized equipment and facilities. They often have higher steel content and thicker rubber, making them more valuable but requiring commercial recycling programs.
What should I do with very old tires from decades ago?
Very old tires may contain different compounds but are still recyclable. However, they may be brittle and require careful handling. Some vintage tires may have collector value - check before recycling.