Tires: Dry Rot Tires on new Purchase, natural aging process, dry rot

Question
A couple weeks ago I purchased a 2002 Chrysler XL Van. It is in great condition, except the tires. All 4 are dry rot.
My question is: should the salesman have sold me the van with the dry rot tires. I'm sure he knew about this becasue he said he drove it for 2000 miles.
I just adopted a 3 year old and need us to be safe when traveling.
Do I go back to the dealorship and question him about the tires or do I take my chances.
PS I cannot afford 4 new tires.
Thank you, Bonnie

Answer
Bonnie,

Cracking is part of the natural aging process of rubber.  So this is an issue of degree - how bad is bad enough?

I think you need a expert opinion - and the best place to get it is a tire shop.  

Hopefully they will either tell you the tires are OK, or you can use them as a reference to convince the salesman that the vehicle was unsafe as he sold it to you.

Be sure to be up front with the tire shop.  Let them know they are only being consulted and that they are not likely to get business out of this.