How to Identify the Tire Production Date?
4 Answers
Tire production dates are indicated by a four-digit number, which is marked on the sidewall of the tire. The first two digits represent the production week, and the last two digits represent the year. Here are the methods to identify the tire production date: 1. Similar to the vehicle production date, the tire production date is actually marked on the outer side of the tire. You don't need to flip the tire; it's on the outside, on one side of the tire wall. There is a set of numbers, and the last four digits of this marking provide information about the production date. It consists of four digits "AABB." The first two digits "AA" indicate the week of the year, and the last two digits "BB" indicate the year. 2. Generally, the 11-digit number and letters immediately following the "DOT" marking on the tire sidewall represent the tire's identification number or serial number. The last four digits of the serial number indicate the tire's production date.
I'm an experienced driver, and teaching you how to read a tire's birthdate is actually quite simple. Look for a string of characters starting with 'DOT' on the sidewall of the tire—the last four digits are the birthdate code. The first two digits indicate the week of production, and the last two digits represent the year. For example, '3023' means the tire was made in the 30th week of 2023. Sometimes these numbers are raised or indented, so you might need to feel them with your fingers to see clearly. Pay special attention if a car has had its tires replaced, as the numbers might differ between the two sides. After five years, the rubber in tires starts to age and harden. Even if the tread is still deep, such tires lose much of their grip in rainy conditions. When buying a used car, take a moment to squat down and check the tire dates—it can help you avoid many hidden pitfalls.
When I was helping my wife check the tires, I found it quite simple. Just turn the steering wheel to the full lock, and the characters on the sidewall of the tire become visible. Look for the string of numbers following the 'DOT' letters—the last four digits indicate the manufacturing date. The first two numbers represent the week of the year, and the last two denote the year. For example, '1222' means the tire was produced in the 12th week of 2022. A word of caution: heavily worn tires might have the date code rubbed off, in which case you should consider replacing them. Mixing old and new tires can affect traction, so it's best to have a mechanic check the date codes when replacing tires to ensure they match. Tires older than six years should be replaced even if the tread depth appears sufficient.
I once wondered about the date when changing tires. The key is to look at the last four digits of the DOT code on the tire sidewall: the first two digits represent the production week (1-52 weeks), and the last two digits indicate the year. For example, '0524' means the tire was produced in the 5th week of this year. When checking the date, you may need to rotate the tire as it's sometimes hidden on the inner side. Don't be fooled by dealers offering 'new tire' discounts—you might end up with three-year-old stock. Rubber has a lifespan of only five to six years, so when replacing tires, don't just look at tread depth; tires older than six years shouldn't be used no matter how cheap they are. Also, remember to check the date before storing winter tires—aged tires can become as hard as rocks in winter.
