Ever wondered how old your car tires really are? Whether you’re shopping for new tires or eyeing the ones already on your vehicle, knowing their manufacture date is crucial for your safety and performance on the road.
Tires can look perfectly fine on the outside yet still be past their prime, making it important to check their actual age. In this article, you’ll learn exactly how to find—and interpret—a tire’s manufacturing date, along with practical tips for using this information.
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How to Tell When a Tire Was Manufactured
Knowing when your tires were manufactured is more than just a piece of trivia—it’s an essential part of responsible vehicle ownership. Tire age impacts safety, performance, and even your warranty coverage. Luckily, finding out a tire’s manufacture date is straightforward once you know where and how to look. In this guide, you’ll learn how to read a tire’s date code, why it matters, and tips for keeping your travels safe.
Understanding the Tire Date Code
When it comes to tire manufacturing dates, the most important tool at your disposal is the Tire Date Code, also known as the DOT code. This series of numbers and letters stamped on each tire sidewall tells a detailed story—including exactly when the tire was made.
What Is the DOT Code?
- “DOT” stands for the Department of Transportation—every tire for road use in the United States is required to have a DOT code.
- The code includes information about the manufacturing plant, tire size, manufacturer-specific details, and, crucially, a date code.
Where to Find the Date Code
- Look along the sidewall of your tire for a string of characters, usually starting with “DOT.”
- The entire DOT code can be up to 12 characters long.
- Focus on the last four digits—these are the tire’s date code and hold the key to its age.
Step-by-Step Guide: Reading a Tire’s Date Code
It’s easier than you think! Here’s exactly how you can determine when your tire was manufactured:
1. Locate the DOT Code
- Inspect the sidewall for a raised string of letters and numbers beginning with “DOT.”
- The DOT code may be on either sidewall, but the full code (with the date) is often on the inward side, facing the car.
2. Find the Last Four Digits
- The final four digits represent the date code (for tires made since 2000).
- Example: If the full code ends with “2619,” this is the date code.
3. Decode the Numbers
- The first two digits: Week of the year (01-52). “26” means the 26th week.
- The last two digits: Year of manufacture. “19” means 2019.
- So, “2619” means the tire was made in the 26th week of 2019 (late June).
For Older Tires (Pre-2000)
- Older tires use a three-digit code: “346” means the 34th week of a year ending in “6” (likely 1996 or 1986).
- If your tires have a three-digit date code, they are more than 20 years old and should be replaced immediately, regardless of appearance.
Why Tire Age Matters
Tires do not last forever, regardless of remaining tread. Here’s why their age is so important:
1. Safety
- Tires degrade over time, even if unused.
- Rubber becomes harder and less flexible, reducing grip and increasing the risk of blowouts or separation.
- Old tires are more susceptible to cracks and dry rot.
2. Performance
- Aging tires may look fine but may not perform as designed, especially in extreme temperatures or wet conditions.
- Reduced traction and increased stopping distances are common in older tires.
3. Insurance & Warranty
- Many manufacturers set guidelines for maximum tire age, often 6-10 years from manufacture date.
- Insurers and service providers may not cover failures caused by aging tires, even if the tread looks good.
Tips & Best Practices for Tire Age
1. Regularly Check Tire Dates
- Make it a habit to check the date code on your tires annually, or whenever you have your tires rotated or serviced.
2. Know When to Replace
- Most experts recommend replacing tires after 6-10 years, regardless of tread depth.
- If you see signs of cracking, dry rot, or bulges, replace them immediately.
3. Check New Tires Before Buying
- Always check the date code before buying new tires—ideally, they should be less than a year old.
- Avoid purchasing “new” tires that have sat in storage for years, as age-related degradation can still occur.
4. Store Tires Properly
- If you must store tires, keep them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and sources of ozone (like electric motors).
- Proper storage can slow, but not stop, the aging process.
5. Ask Your Dealer or Service Technician
- If you are unsure about reading the code, don’t hesitate to ask a tire professional.
- Many tire shops will check the age and condition of your tires during routine service.
Common Challenges in Reading Tire Date Codes
While the process is usually straightforward, a few issues can arise:
- Worn or Dormant Codes: The sidewall can get scratched, dirty, or faded, making the code hard to read. Clean gently with water and a soft brush to reveal it.
- Inward-Facing Code: Some vehicles have the date code on the inside-facing sidewall. You might have to check while the tire is off the car or use a small mirror and flashlight.
- Misinterpreting the Code: Always remember, the last four digits are the date code if your tire is from 2000 or later. Don’t confuse other digits for the date.
Benefits of Knowing Your Tire’s Manufacture Date
- Improved Safety: Prevent accidents by replacing old tires, even if they don’t look worn out.
- Peace of Mind: Drive with confidence, knowing your tires are within the recommended age range.
- Better Buying Decisions: Ensure you receive genuinely “new” tires when making a purchase.
- Tire Maintenance: Stay proactive with maintenance and replacements before problems arise.
- Accurate Record-Keeping: Keep records of your tire ages—especially important for leased or multiple vehicles.
Quick Reference: Reading the Tire Date Code
Here’s a breakdown for easy reference:
| DOT Code Ending | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 2619 | 26th week of 2019 | June 2019 |
| 0422 | 4th week of 2022 | Jan 2022 |
| 346 (pre-2000) | 34th week of a year ending in 6 | 1996/1986 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do tires last before they should be replaced?
Most experts recommend replacing tires every 6 to 10 years, regardless of mileage or tread depth. Even if unused, tire rubber deteriorates over time and can become unsafe.
Can I use tires that are more than 10 years old if they look good?
No. Tires older than 10 years may have hidden internal damage that isn’t visible from the outside. Most manufacturers and safety organizations recommend replacing tires that reach 10 years of age, no matter their appearance.
Are the DOT codes always easy to see on every tire?
Not always. Sometimes, the full DOT code, including the date, is found on the inner sidewall facing the car’s chassis. You may need to remove the tire or use a mirror to see it. Dirt and wear can also obscure the code—clean gently to reveal it.
What if my tire only has a three-digit date code?
A three-digit date code means the tire was manufactured before 2000. Such tires are too old to be safe and should be replaced immediately, even if they appear unused.
What’s the risk of buying tires that have been in storage for several years?
Tires age even when not in use. A tire stored for years can harden, crack, or lose elasticity. Always check the date code and avoid buying tires more than 1 year from their manufacture date unless you know they were stored properly.
In Summary
Determining your tire’s manufacture date is quick and simple once you know what to look for: the final four digits of the DOT code. Regularly checking tire age helps you avoid the risks of old rubber, giving you peace of mind and safety on every journey. Make date code checks part of your tire care routine, and always prioritize replacing old or questionable tires—even if the tread seems fine. Staying on top of tire age is a smart, easy way to protect yourself, your passengers, and your investment in your vehicle.
Feel more confident on the road by understanding your tires—your safety depends on it!
