It is at least theoretically possible for rubber/elastomer used in the suspension of the cartridge to degrade with age, either from exposure to pollutants in the air (ozone), or because some of the compounds may be slightly volatile. This is the theory, though three years seems exceptionally short a shelf-life.
But, I haven't experience this myself, and I have heard many very old cartridges that sounded very good -- at least this is the case with the better brands.
But, I haven't experience this myself, and I have heard many very old cartridges that sounded very good -- at least this is the case with the better brands.