How to Read Tire Date Codes and Determine the Week of Manufacture
2 Answers
Below is a detailed explanation on how to identify a tire's production date: 1. Similar to vehicle manufacturing dates, a tire's production date is actually marked on the tire's exterior. On the sidewall of the tire, there is a set of numbers. The last four digits of this marking provide information about the production date, consisting of a four-digit code "aabb". The first two digits "aa" indicate the week of the year, while the last two digits "bb" represent the year. 2. Generally, the 11-digit alphanumeric code immediately following the "DOT" letters on the tire sidewall represents the tire's identification number or serial number. The last four digits of this serial number indicate the tire's production date. The tire production date code format is as follows: the first two digits denote the production week, and the last two digits signify the production year. For example, if the last four digits of the DOT code are 0807, it means the tire was manufactured in the 8th week of 2007, which would be around late February 2007.
Finding the tire date is actually quite simple, and I often help my friends check their tires. First, look at the sidewall of the tire where there's a DOT code. The last four digits are crucial—the first two represent the production week, and the last two indicate the year. For example, "1221" means the tire was produced in the 12th week of 2021. Knowing this, you can calculate how many years the tire has been in use. Generally, tires should be replaced every 6 to 10 years as they age severely, increasing the risk of accidents, especially at high speeds. I recommend checking the tire date when buying a car; avoid those with overly old tires. Also, inspect the tread wear and maintain proper tire pressure to extend tire life and prevent blowouts.
