Ever wondered if those “new” tires you just bought are truly fresh off the production line? Knowing when your tires were manufactured isn’t just for the curious—it’s a smart way to protect your wallet and ensure your safety on the road.
Tires age, even if they’re never used, which can affect their performance and reliability. In this article, you’ll discover exactly how to find your tires’ birthdate, plus handy tips for checking and interpreting it with confidence.
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How to Tell When Tires Are Manufactured: Everything You Need to Know
Understanding when your tires were manufactured is crucial for your safety and vehicle performance. Tires age and degrade over time, even if they look new. Learning how to locate and interpret your tire’s manufacturing date empowers you to make informed decisions about when to replace them and keep yourself on the road with confidence.
The Quick Answer: Reading Your Tire’s Date Code
Every tire has a date code stamped on its sidewall as part of the DOT (Department of Transportation) number. This code shows exactly when the tire was made—down to the week and year. By finding and reading this code, you can quickly determine your tire’s age.
Step-by-Step: How to Find and Read the Tire Manufacture Date
1. Locate the DOT Code
All tires sold in the United States are required to have a DOT code. You’ll find it molded into the sidewall, usually beginning with the letters “DOT” followed by several letters and numbers.
Where to look:
– On one side of the tire (it may be the outward-facing or inward-facing side).
– Near the bead or just above the rim line.
2. Identify the Date Portion of the DOT Code
The last four digits of the DOT code tell you exactly when the tire was made.
- Example DOT Code: DOT U2LL LMLR 3819
- The last four digits (3819) are the manufacture date.
3. Decode the Manufacture Date
Here’s how to read those four digits:
- First two digits: Week of the year (01 = first week of January, 52 = last week of December)
- Last two digits: Year (e.g., 19 = 2019)
Using the example above:
– 38 = 38th week of the year
– 19 = 2019
– So, the tire was manufactured in the 38th week of 2019.
4. For Older Tires (Pre-2000)
If you see only a three-digit number at the end:
– The format was “WWY” (week, week, year).
– Example: 279 = 27th week of 1999 (or possibly 1989, since the three-digit code repeats every decade).
Important: Tires with this older dating format are decades out of date and should be replaced immediately.
Why Knowing Your Tire’s Age Is Important
1. Tire Performance Degrades with Age
- Rubber compounds in tires break down over time.
- This means less traction, lower grip, and possible cracking—regardless of tread depth.
2. Manufacturer Recommendations
- Many tire manufacturers, vehicle makers, and safety organizations recommend replacing tires every six to ten years, even if they appear unused.
- Some shops refuse to install tires older than six years.
3. Environmental Factors
- Sunlight (UV rays), heat, and chemicals speed up tire aging.
- Tires stored outside (even as spares) age faster.
Practical Tips for Checking Tire Age
Inspect All Four Tires
- Check each tire individually. Not all may have been replaced at the same time.
- Don’t forget your spare! It can age too, even without use.
Record the Date
- Keep a note in your service records when you install new tires and their manufacturing dates.
Ask Before You Buy
- Always check the tag or request the DOT code when buying new tires, especially if the price seems unusually low.
- Avoid installing tires that are older than two years, even if labeled as “new”—they’ve already lost some flexibility and performance.
Be Aware of the “Inward” DOT Code
- On some tires, the date code is only on the side facing the vehicle. This might require a professional to help read it.
What to Do If Your Tires Are Old
If your tires are over six years old, consider replacing them as soon as possible—even if they have plenty of tread.
Signs a tire needs replacing:
– Visible cracks, splits, or dry rot on the sidewalls
– Bulges or bubbles
– Uneven or excessive tread wear
– Frequent loss of air
Remember, safety should always come first!
Common Challenges When Reading Tire Date Codes
1. Hard-to-Find Codes:
Sometimes, the DOT code is facing inward or is difficult to read due to dirt or fading.
2. Partial or Obscured Codes:
Damage or age can wear away the code. If it’s unreadable, treat the tire as potentially old and consider replacing it.
3. Misleading “New” Tires:
Some retailers may sell tires that have been in storage for several years but are still technically “unused.” Always confirm manufacture date before purchase.
Benefits of Checking Your Tire’s Manufacture Date
- Ensures your tires are safe and reliable.
- Helps maintain optimal vehicle handling and braking.
- Allows informed purchasing decisions, avoiding expired inventory.
- Prevents sudden tire failures or blowouts caused by aged materials.
- Compliance with warranty policies, which often have age exclusions.
Best Practices for Tire Age Management
-
Inspect Tires Regularly:
Check tire age every six months, particularly before long road trips. -
Replace Tires Proactively:
Don’t wait for visible signs of age. Use the date as your primary guide, especially after six years. -
Proper Tire Storage:
If storing tires (e.g., winter/summer sets), keep them in a cool, dry, and dark place to slow aging. -
Consult Professionals:
If you’re not sure how to find or read the code, ask your mechanic for help during routine service.
Extra Insights: Myths and Facts About Tire Age
-
Myth: Tires expire only when worn out.
Fact: Tires degrade due to time, not just mileage. -
Myth: Spare tires last forever.
Fact: Spares age even if unused and should be replaced after six years. -
Myth: You don’t need to check the date on “new” tires.
Fact: Always check—it’s possible to buy tires stored for years.
Summary
Your tire’s date code empowers you to safeguard yourself and your passengers. Find the DOT code, read those last four digits, and translate them into week and year. If your tires are approaching or over six years old, think about replacing them, even if they look fine.
Tire age is as important as tread depth. Don’t take chances—making checking tire manufacture dates a regular habit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I find the date code on my tire?
Look for a string of letters and numbers starting with “DOT” on your tire’s sidewall. The last four digits of this code represent the week and year the tire was made.
2. How old is too old for a tire?
Most experts recommend replacing your tires when they reach six years of age, regardless of tread. Ten years is considered the absolute maximum.
3. What if I can’t read the DOT code?
If the code is faded, on the inward side, or damaged, have a professional inspect the tire. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and consider replacing any unknown-age tires.
4. Can tires stored indoors still age?
Yes, although they age more slowly. Rubber degrades over time, even in ideal storage conditions. Always check the date code, not just the appearance.
5. Is it safe to buy tires that have been in storage a few years but never used?
Always check the manufacture date. Tires more than two years old may have reduced performance, even if unused. Newer is generally better for safety and longevity.
Keep these tips and best practices in mind, and you’ll be driving safer, smarter, and better informed!
