How to Check the Production Date of Continental Tires?
3 Answers
You can find the production date of Continental tires on the sidewall. Here is more information about car tires: 1. When replacing tires, pay attention to the production date marked on the tire. The production date is usually represented by a four-digit number. The first two digits indicate the week of production, and the last two digits indicate the year. For example, "3512" means the tire was produced in the 35th week of 2012. 2. The shelf life of tires is generally 5 years. When replacing with new tires, the production date should not exceed 3 years. The closer the production date, the better, as this means you can use the tire for a longer period within its shelf life. However, tires do not indicate the expiration date, only the production date. 3. If the production date is unclear, it is recommended not to purchase the tire to avoid buying old stock or refurbished tires. It is also best to choose a repair shop or installation point designated by the tire manufacturer for replacement.
I remember when I first changed my car tires, I specifically looked up how to check the production date of Continental tires. It's actually quite simple. You just squat down and look at the sidewall of the tire, where you'll find a sequence engraved with letters and numbers—that's the DOT code. Just look for the last four digits, like '3221'. The first two digits represent the production week (for example, 32 means the 32nd week), and the last two digits indicate the year (21 stands for 2021). This way, you can easily tell whether your tires are old or new. Don’t underestimate this—tires can age if stored for too long, and after six years, they’re more prone to cracking or slipping. I make it a habit to check regularly, about every six months, squatting by the car for a quick glance to ensure safe driving. After all, a tire blowout on the highway is no joke, and saving a little time isn’t worth the risk—better to have peace of mind.
As someone who frequently works on cars, I've found that checking the production date of Continental tires is as simple as looking at the DOT code on the sidewall. Specifically, the label is usually engraved near the tire edge—just find a well-lit spot and check the last four digits. The first two digits represent the week number (ranging from 01 to 52), and the last two are the year's final digits. For example, '1022' means the tire was made in the 10th week of 2022. Why does this matter? Over time, tire rubber hardens, reducing grip and increasing the risk of accidents, especially in wet conditions. I make it a habit to check during every maintenance session, and I recommend you do the same—don’t wait until a long trip to worry about it. If the date shows it’s too old, say five years or more, replace it immediately to avoid trouble on the road.
