How to Check Tire Date?
3 Answers
Here are the methods to check the tire date: 1. On the outside of the tire, there is a set of numbers on the sidewall. The last four digits of this marking provide information about the production date. It consists of four digits "AABB," where the first two digits "AA" indicate the week of the year, and the last two digits "BB" indicate the year. 2. For example, if the last four digits of the DOT marking on the tire are 0807, it means the tire was produced in the 8th week of 2007, which is around late February 2007. Similarly, a marking of 1606 indicates production in the 16th week of 2006, which is around mid-April 2006.
I usually check my car at home, and I find checking the tire date quite simple. You just need to look at the sidewall of the tire. There, you'll typically see the letters 'DOT' followed by a four-digit number. The first two digits represent the week of the year, and the last two digits indicate the year. For example, if it says '2124,' it means the tire was produced in the 21st week of 2024. I always have to squat down and use a flashlight to see clearly, especially in poorly lit areas or where the car has been parked for a long time and dust has accumulated. The tire production date is extremely important because tire materials have a lifespan. Generally, after five or six years, they start to age, and too many cracks can make driving at high speeds very dangerous. Once, I discovered my tire had aged and nearly blew out while driving—it was a close call. That's why I recommend checking your tires yourself every quarter. Don't wait until you have a flat or need repairs to deal with it. This habit saves money and ensures safety, and I encourage everyone to give it a try.
As a seasoned driver who frequently travels on business, I place great importance on tire safety, and checking the manufacturing date is a must. First, locate the DOT-coded numbers on the tire sidewall, usually a four-digit sequence where the first two digits represent the week and the last two the year. For example, '1619' means the tire was produced in the 16th week of 2019. This directly relates to the tire's aging—new materials degrade over time, reducing elasticity and increasing the risk of blowouts at high speeds. I simply use my phone's flashlight to check; the date might be on the inner side near the wheel rim, requiring a full walk-around the car. Remember, don’t just check the outer side—consistent dates are crucial to avoid being sold old tires passed off as new. Regular checks prevent accidents, and I often advise friends to remind technicians to inspect tires during routine maintenance, effortlessly addressing major risks.
