How to Check the Production Date of Tires and Vehicles?
3 Answers
Tire and vehicle production dates can be checked by: 1. Locating a set of numbers on the tire sidewall—the first two digits represent the week of production in the year, and the last two digits represent the year of production; 2. Checking the nameplate below the B-pillar on the passenger side, inspecting the new vehicle’s certificate of conformity (production date is located in the upper right corner), or looking for a paper nameplate on the windshield in front of the driver’s seat. Tire maintenance methods include: 1. Regularly removing stones stuck in tire treads; 2. Minimizing exposure to direct sunlight; 3. Frequently checking tire pressure; 4. Paying attention to suspension maintenance; 5. Periodically inspecting front wheel alignment; 6. Being mindful of driving habits.
I think checking the tire manufacturing date is quite important, especially when you've been driving for years. Tires can age and harden, affecting braking distance and wet-road grip. The method is to look for a small square label or a string of numbers on the tire sidewall with 'DOT' on it. The last four digits represent the date. For example, '3523' means the tire was produced in the 35th week of 2023. If there's no label or it's faded, the tire might be severely worn. It's recommended to replace tires every 5-6 years for safety—don't skimp on that. As for the car's manufacturing date, it's even simpler. Look for the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) at the lower corner of the windshield—the 10th digit or letter indicates the year, e.g., 'L' corresponds to 2020. Alternatively, check the metal plate on the door frame or in the engine bay, which clearly states the production month and year. I always check these during routine maintenance to avoid regretting it only after a blowout or accident.
As an average car owner, I usually check the vehicle's production date by looking at the small plate near the door—just open the driver's door frame to see the manufacturing year and month. Finding the tire production date is even more interesting: crouch down and check the tire sidewall for a DOT code, where the last four digits indicate the week and year it was made. If the tires are too old (like over 7 years), the tread may crack and it's time to replace them. Why does this matter? Because tire rubber hardens over time, making high-speed driving unsafe. The car's production year also affects its resale value and warranty. When buying a car, I always jot down the date on my phone to check its history—better safe than sorry. Make it a habit to check these details regularly to avoid surprises.
