Ever wondered how old your car tyres really are? Whether you’re buying new wheels, selling your vehicle, or just thinking about safety, knowing a tyre’s manufacturing year matters more than you might think. Tyres age over time, even if they look perfectly fine from the outside, and old tyres can compromise your safety on the road.
In this article, you’ll discover how to easily identify your tyre’s manufacturing year with simple steps and practical tips, ensuring you stay informed and confident behind the wheel.
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How to Know the Manufacturing Year of a Tyre
Understanding when your tyre was manufactured is a crucial part of vehicle maintenance and safety. Tyres age even if they have not been used, and older tyres may not provide the grip and safety features they did when new. In this guide, we’ll explain exactly how to identify the manufacturing year of a tyre, step by step. Plus, you’ll get practical tips to keep your tyres (and your journeys) safer for longer.
Spotting the Tyre Manufacturing Date: The Basics
Every tyre made for road use has a unique manufacturing date code. This code tells you not only the year but also the exact week your tyre was produced. It’s embedded in a special number sequence on the tyre’s side, known as the DOT code. Understanding this code is simple once you know where to look and how to read it.
Step-by-step Guide: How to Read the Tyre Manufacturing Date
1. Find the DOT Code on the Tyre Sidewall
- Stand by your vehicle and take a close look at the sidewall of the tyre.
- You might need a cloth to wipe off any dirt for a clear view.
- Look for a string of numbers and letters beginning with “DOT” (which stands for Department of Transportation).
- The full code might look something like: DOT X0XX XXXX 4719
2. Identify the Date Stamp
- The manufacturing date is always found at the end of the DOT code.
- It’s usually a four-digit number, sometimes appearing in an oval.
3. Decode the Four-Digit Number
Here’s how to interpret the number:
- The first two digits represent the week of manufacture (from 01 for the first week of January to 52 for the last week of December).
- The last two digits represent the year.
Example:
– If the code is 4719, this means the tyre was made in the 47th week of 2019 (mid to late November 2019).
4. What if the Tyre Has a Three-Digit Code?
- Tyres manufactured before the year 2000 use a three-digit code. For instance, “257” would mean the 25th week of a year ending in 7 (could be 1997, 1987, etc.).
- It’s rare to find such old tyres in use today. If you do, the tyre is definitely too old for safe use and should be replaced immediately.
Why Tyre Age Matters
Tyre rubber naturally degrades over time, regardless of how much it’s used. Older tyres may look fine but can lose their grip, crack, or fail without warning. That’s why checking the manufacturing date isn’t just a technical exercise—it’s directly tied to your safety and the performance of your vehicle.
Key Reasons to Check Tyre Age
- To ensure optimum grip and braking performance.
- To avoid the risk of unexpected tyre failure due to ageing rubber.
- Many manufacturers recommend replacing tyres after 6 years, regardless of tread depth.
Additional Aspects When Checking Tyre Age
Where is the DOT Code Located?
- The DOT code is located on one sidewall of the tyre. Sometimes, it’s only on the outer-facing or inner-facing side.
- If you don’t find it right away, check both sides—some tyres only display the full DOT code on one side.
Can All Tyres Have a DOT Code?
- The DOT code system is standard for tyres sold in many countries, especially in the US and Europe.
- If your tyre lacks a DOT code, be cautious: it may be an older, off-brand, or imported product that doesn’t meet strict safety standards.
Other Markings You Might See
- You might notice a mix of numbers and letters on the tyre sidewall. Only the final four digits of the DOT code indicate the manufacturing date.
- Don’t confuse this with the tyre size or other technical data.
Practical Tips for Tyre Safety and Maintenance
Keep your vehicle safe by following these best practices:
- Check the DOT code during purchase
Never buy a “brand new” tyre without checking its manufacturing date. Tyres can be sold as new even if they’ve been stored for a few years.
-
Inspect unused or rarely used tyres
Tyres on spare wheels, trailers, or classic cars may look unworn but can be dangerously old. -
Replace tyres every 6 years
This is a widely recommended period regardless of tread wear. After 10 years, tyres should be replaced in all cases. -
Store tyres in a cool, dry place
Heat, sunlight, and chemicals speed up rubber deterioration. Proper storage extends their safe life. -
Regularly inspect for cracks
Tyre sidewall cracks are a major sign of ageing, even if the tread seems fine. -
Consider professional advice
If in doubt, ask a trusted tyre technician or garage to inspect and date your tyres for you.
Common Challenges When Checking Tyre Manufacturing Year
- Worn or faded DOT codes: With age or harsh road conditions, the sidewall code can fade or become difficult to read. Use adequate light and clean the tyre beforehand to improve visibility.
- Non-standard tyres: Imported or off-brand tyres might use different coding, or none at all.
- Mismatched tyres: Sometimes, not all tyres on your car will be the same age—check them individually.
- Tyre position: If the date code is on the inside-facing side, you may need to carefully inspect the inner sidewall or have the tyre removed by a professional for safe reading.
Benefits of Knowing Your Tyre’s Age
Understanding your tyre’s age gives you control over your vehicle’s safety. Here are some undeniable benefits:
- Improved safety: You’ll significantly reduce the risk of blowouts or punctures caused by ageing.
- Better performance: Fresh tyres provide better traction, handling, and braking.
- Informed purchasing: You won’t pay for an old “new” tyre, ensuring value for money.
- Peace of mind: You and your passengers can travel with confidence.
Quick Recap: How to Find and Read the Tyre Manufacture Year
- Locate the DOT code on the tyre’s sidewall.
- Focus on the last four digits—this is the manufacturing date.
- Decode: first two digits are the week; last two are the year.
- Replace tyres older than 6 years, regardless of mileage.
- Always check tyre age before buying or fitting tyres.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How can I tell how old my tyre is?
Look at the sidewall of your tyre for the DOT code. The last four digits of this code will tell you the week and year of manufacture. For example, “2318” means the tyre was made in the 23rd week of 2018.
2. Is it safe to use tyres that are more than 6 years old?
Tyres older than 6 years are at a higher risk of failure due to ageing rubber. It’s generally recommended to replace tyres after 6 years for optimal safety, even if they appear to have good tread left.
3. Why don’t all tyres show the manufacturing date clearly?
Sometimes, the DOT code is only printed on one sidewall, or it may become worn or faded over time. For some imported or older tyres, there may not be a date stamp at all, which is a red flag for buyers.
4. Does the tyre expiry date mean tyres will suddenly become dangerous?
Tyres don’t technically “expire” overnight, but rubber naturally degrades, making them more prone to failure as they age. Environmental factors like heat and sunlight can speed up this process.
5. Can I check the manufacturing year of my spare tyre or little-used tyres the same way?
Absolutely! Use the exact same method for spare or rarely used tyres. Even if they’ve spent time off the road, the ageing process continues. Always check and replace tyres based on age as well as wear.
Final Thoughts
Knowing exactly how to find and read the manufacturing year of your tyres is a simple but vital skill every driver should have. It takes just a few minutes but can make a significant difference to your drive quality and safety. Always check tyre age, whether you’re buying new or examining those already on your vehicle. When in doubt, consult a professional to stay safe and keep your travels smooth.
