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Quick and Easy Ways to Tell the Age of a Tire

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Don't know how to tell the age of your tires? This guide provides simple methods to help you determine the age of your tires in no time.


How to tell the age of a tire? Do you know how old is your tire? How long do car tires last? Is there any way to determine the expiration of the tire? Tire manufacturing date plays an important factor in knowing the tire expiration, and whether the tire is still safe to use or not. Look at the tire manufacturing date this is how to tell the age of a tire using the code located on the sidewall of the tire.

How to Tell the Age of a Tire

From the tire manufacturing date or tire production date, you can decide whether the tire is still safe to use. When buying a tire, look at this date because one may never know how long the tire has been on the shelf, it might be sitting there for a long period and the tire quality is already deteriorated because of several factors that affect the tires.

Telling the age of a tire is important because tires degrade over time, even if they haven't been used much. The age of a tire is typically indicated by the Tire Identification Number (TIN), also known as the DOT number, which is imprinted on the sidewall of the tire. The DOT number is a standardized code issued by the Department of Transportation (DOT) in the United States and other countries have similar regulations.

The DOT number usually consists of a series of letters and numbers. To determine the age of a tire from the DOT number, follow these steps:

1. Look for the DOT number. It is usually located on the sidewall of the tire, near the rim, on one side of the tire. It will start with the letters "DOT," followed by a series of characters.

2. Identify the last four digits. The last four digits of the DOT number represent the tire's manufacturing date. For example, if the last four digits are "2319," it means the tire was manufactured in the 23rd week of the year 2019.

3. Decode the manufacturing date. The last two digits represent the year of manufacture, and the preceding two digits indicate the week of the year when the tire was made. In the example "2319," "23" signifies the 23rd week, and "19" indicates the year 2019.

4. Calculate the tire's age. Subtract the year of manufacture from the current year to determine the age of the tire. For instance, if the tire was manufactured in 2019 and the current year is 2023, the tire is four years old.
According to Japan Tire Manufacturing Association (JTMA), the tire will expire 10 years after the manufacturing date, meaning if the tire is not been used for that longer period the tire is not safe to use, and should not be used. But if the tire has already been used or is put into service after the manufacturing date, then it should only be put into service for about 6 years. The tire that has been used by the car for more than 6 years from the start of the manufacturing date must be replaced.

Keep in mind that it is generally recommended to replace tires that are more than six years old, regardless of their tread depth or apparent condition, as older tires may be more susceptible to failure due to deterioration over time. Additionally, always check for other signs of tire aging such as cracks, bulges, or dry rot. If in doubt about the age or condition of your tires, consult with a qualified tire professional.

How how to check the Tire Manufacturing Date

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In the above example the tire manufacturing date is 4817 this means the tire was manufactured on the 48th week of 2017 wherein the 48th week of the year is in November, it also means that the tire was manufactured in November 2017. So, if the tire is put to service after the manufacturing date it should only be put to use within 6 year after the date of manufactured or until November 2023. What does this mean? It means you can now tell if the tire you are buying is an old stock tire or a newly manufactured tire, it means also that you can estimate the date when the tire was installed on your car if it corresponds to your car year model.

However, if the tire did not put into service after the manufacturing date, the tire must not be put into use 10 years beyond the manufacturing date or November 2027. The tire manufacturing date was stamped on the sidewall of the tire. When you look closer at the tire sidewall it can easily be spotted, it's the last 4 digit number of the 8-character code as shown in the above illustration.

How long do car tires last?

The lifespan of car tires can vary depending on several factors, including the type of tire, driving habits, road conditions, and maintenance. On average, most tires are designed to last for about 50,000 to 70,000 miles (80,000 to 113,000 kilometers). However, it's essential to keep in mind that this is a general estimate, and actual tire life can be shorter or longer based on individual circumstances.

Here are some key factors that can influence the lifespan of car tires:

1. Tire type and quality. Different types of tires, such as all-season, summer, or winter tires, have varying tread compounds and patterns, affecting their longevity. Higher-quality tires from reputable brands may often last longer than cheaper, lower-quality alternatives.

2. Driving habits. Aggressive driving, excessive braking, and fast acceleration can lead to faster tire wear. Additionally, frequently driving at high speeds or taking sharp turns can contribute to tire degradation.

3.Road conditions. Rough or poorly maintained roads, as well as driving on gravel or other abrasive surfaces, can accelerate tire wear.

4. Tire maintenance. Regular tire maintenance, including proper inflation, tire rotation, and alignment, can significantly extend the life of your tires.

5. Climate. Extreme temperatures and harsh weather conditions can impact tire longevity. For instance, hot weather can cause the rubber to deteriorate more quickly, while cold weather can make the tire more rigid and less flexible.

6. Storage. If you store your vehicle for an extended period, especially on hard surfaces, it can lead to flat-spotting and premature tire wear.

As a rule of thumb, it's essential to regularly inspect your tires for signs of wear and tear, such as tread depth, sidewall cracks, bulges, and any irregularities. If you notice significant wear or damage, it's best to replace the tires promptly to maintain safe driving conditions.

Remember that while mileage is a helpful indicator, tire age is equally important. Even if the tread is still good, it is generally recommended to replace tires that are more than six years old due to the natural deterioration of the rubber over time. Check the tire's manufacturing date using the Tire Identification Number (TIN) as described in the previous response. Proper maintenance and regular inspections are key to getting the most out of your tires and ensuring your safety on the road.

How to Choose the Right Tires for Your Car
How to tell the age of a tire? The manufacturing date will tell you the new from an old tire. The old tire is not safe to use, Be sure it's unique. Read more: How to Choose the Right Tires for Your Car


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