How to Determine the Age of a Tire?

[BrantleyAnn]

The method to determine the age of a tire is: locate a set of numbers on the outer wall of the tire to check its age. The functions of a tire are: 1. Transmit driving force, braking force, and steering force to operate the vehicle; 2. Support the vehicle load; 3. Reduce and absorb vibrations and impact forces during driving. Methods for maintaining car tires: 1. Regularly check tire pressure; 2. Remove debris from tire treads; 3. Inspect tire wear and replace them promptly based on wear conditions; 4. Perform tire rotation, which ensures even force distribution across all four tires and prevents excessive wear.

[DiMaria]

I first realized the importance of tire age during a near-accident experience on the highway. Checking tire age is actually super simple: look for the small DOT marking on the tire sidewall, usually an embossed or recessed code. The last four digits are crucial - for example, "1523" means the tire was manufactured in the 15th week of 2023. As tires age beyond 5-6 years, they become prone to deformation and aging, developing tiny surface cracks that dramatically reduce wet-weather traction and increase blowout risks. I conduct regular DIY checks, feeling tread depth during seasonal changes while verifying the date. Don't rely solely on appearance - even pristine-looking old tires can be dangerous, especially during high-speed driving or sharp turns. I recommend making this a habit to significantly reduce accident risks, because safety always comes first.

[SanAliyah]

I usually drive a used car, and checking the tire age is a routine task for me. The method is simple: just squat down and look at the sidewall of the tire for the last four digits of the DOT code. The first two digits represent the week, and the last two indicate the year. For example, "0422" means the tire was manufactured in the fourth week of 2022. Tires become hard and brittle after seven or eight years, making them noticeably slippery in rainy conditions. I once had a blowout on a rural road due to hitting a pothole, all because of aged tires. So, everyone, pay attention—don’t just focus on tread depth; the age is even more critical. When parking in the garage, I make it a habit to glance at them regularly. This can save money, as replacing tires too early or delaying replacement both come with costs. In humid weather, old tires are even more prone to problems.

[LaLorenzo]

I always remind my friends to check the tire age, and the method is just two steps: first, find the DOT mark on the sidewall of the tire and read the last four digits; for example, "2119" means the tire was produced in the 21st week of 2019. Tires that have been used for more than five or six years will age, and hardened tires will have longer braking distances, posing greater risks at high speeds. I check them routinely when washing my car every week, making it a habit. Safe driving relies on these small details.