Ever wondered if your tyres are too old for safe driving? Knowing when your tyres were manufactured isn’t just for car enthusiasts—it’s essential for anyone who values safety on the road. Tyres age, even if they look fine, and old rubber can put you at risk.
In this article, you’ll discover exactly how to find and read the year of manufacture on your tyres, step-by-step, plus handy tips to keep you prepared and protected.
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How to Read the Year of Manufacture on a Tyre
Knowing the year your tyre was manufactured is crucial for safety and performance. Tyres age, and even if they appear to be in good condition, their materials degrade over time. This can lead to reduced grip, compromised handling, and an increased risk of blowouts. Thankfully, reading a tyre’s year of manufacture code is straightforward—all you need to do is know where to look and how to interpret a simple set of numbers.
Let’s break down the process and share best practices for checking your tyres’ age so you can drive with confidence.
Understanding Tyre Date Codes
Tyres display their date of manufacture using codes stamped on their sidewalls. This code is also known as the DOT code (Department of Transportation code) and contains information about the tyre’s age and manufacturing details.
- The part of the DOT code that tells the manufacturing date is located near the rim on the tyre’s sidewall.
- This code is critical for assessing the age and potential lifespan of your tyres.
Where to Find the Date Code
-
Inspect the Tyre Sidewall
Carefully look at the outer sidewall of your tyre. The DOT code typically starts with the letters “DOT” followed by a series of numbers and letters. -
Locate the Last Four Digits
Focus on the last four digits in the longer DOT sequence. These indicate the week and year of manufacture.
Step-by-Step Guide to Reading the Tyre Date Code
Reading the tyre date code is simpler than you might think. Here’s a straightforward step-by-step process:
1. Find the DOT Code
- The code begins with “DOT” and can be up to 12 characters in total.
- It may be on the inside or outside of the tyre. If you can’t spot it right away, try inspecting the side facing under your car.
2. Identify the Date Stamp
Look for the last four digits at the end of the DOT code. For example, in a code like “DOT WXYZ ABCD 0722”:
- The last four digits—”0722″—are the key.
3. Decode the Numbers
- The first two digits represent the week of manufacture (from 01 to 52).
- The last two digits denote the year of manufacture.
Example Breakdown:
| DOT Code Ending | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 0722 | 7th week of 2022 |
| 4419 | 44th week of 2019 |
So, if your tyre has “0722,” it was made in mid-February 2022.
Note on 3-digit Codes
- Tyres manufactured before the year 2000 use a 3-digit code (e.g., “498” would be the 49th week of 1998).
- Tyres over 20 years old should be replaced immediately, regardless of their appearance.
Why Tyre Age Matters
The age of a tyre impacts its:
- Grip: Rubber hardens over time, reducing traction.
- Safety: Older tyres are more prone to sudden failure.
- Handling: As tyres age, their responsiveness and ability to disperse water decline.
- Manufacturer Warranties: Many warranties are based on manufacturing date, not purchase date.
Driving on old tyres can put you and others at risk, no matter how little they’ve been used.
Tyre Age: Best Practices and Tips
To ensure your tyres are safe and in top shape, follow these practical recommendations:
1. Check Tyre Age Regularly
- Inspect your tyres for the date code at least once a year.
- Especially check before long road trips and after buying a used vehicle.
2. Replace Tyres at Recommended Intervals
- Most manufacturers recommend replacing tyres after 6-10 years, regardless of tread depth.
- For high-mileage drivers or those in hot climates, consider replacement sooner.
3. Ask for Recent Tyres When Purchasing
- Don’t assume new tyres at a shop are recently manufactured—check the date codes yourself.
- Request tyres less than 1 year old, especially for performance or winter tyres.
4. Store Tyres Correctly
If you are storing tyres (like winter or spare tyres):
- Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Avoid exposure to ozone sources (electric motors).
- Store tyres upright or stacked, but avoid excessive weight on bottom tyres.
5. Be Wary of “New Old Stock”
- Some retailers sell tyres that are new but old (never used but manufactured years ago).
- Always check the date code before buying, especially when deals seem too good to be true.
6. Inspect for Signs of Ageing
- Cracking, dry rot, or fading are all signs your tyres may be aged and unsafe, even if the tread looks fine.
Challenges You May Encounter
While reading the tyre date code is usually quick and simple, you might face some challenges:
- The DOT code can be on the inside sidewall, requiring you to jack up the car to access it.
- Raised dirt or wear can make the code hard to read. Try using a flashlight and cleaning the sidewall gently.
- In rare cases, very old or imported tyres may lack the standard four-digit code—these should be replaced promptly.
Summary
Reading your tyre’s year of manufacture is not only simple but vital for your safety. Just locate the DOT code on the tyre’s sidewall, and read the last four digits for the week and year when your tyre was made. Make it a habit to inspect and understand your tyres’ age—remember, appearance alone can’t guarantee a tyre’s safety!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I check the date code on my tyres?
Ideally, inspect your tyres for their age once a year. Also, check the date codes when purchasing new tyres or a used car to make sure you know exactly how old they are.
Is it safe to use tyres that are more than six years old if they have good tread?
While tread depth is important, rubber degrades with time, making older tyres unsafe. Most experts recommend replacing tyres every 6-10 years, regardless of tread.
Where can I find the tyre date code if it’s not on the outer sidewall?
Sometimes, the code is on the inner sidewall facing under the car. In this case, you may need to remove the wheel or jack up the car to read it safely.
Are there regulations about selling old ‘new’ tyres?
Many countries and reputable tyre shops have standards about selling tyres older than six years. However, in some places, older tyres may still be sold as “new” if they haven’t been used. Always check the date code before buying.
Do all types of tyres have a date code?
Yes, manufacturers stamp date codes on all tyres, including spares, winter tyres, and truck tyres. If you can’t find a date code, it may be a very old or non-compliant tyre and should not be used.
Empower yourself by checking your tyre’s birthdate today—it’s a small step that makes a big difference on the road!
