Is it normal for new car tires to have different production dates?
3 Answers
It is normal for new car tires to have different production dates. Here is some relevant information about tires: 1. Tire Introduction: Tires are the only components of a car that come into contact with the ground. Some car owners only replace the tires on the drive wheels when changing tires. For example, some front-wheel-drive car owners only replace the two front tires, while some rear-wheel-drive car owners only replace the two rear tires. In fact, this practice is acceptable. 2. Tire Aging: Tires are rubber products and will age over time. It is recommended that car owners replace their tires every four years, even if the mileage is low during that period. Since tires can also age when left unused for a long time, it is important to check the production date when purchasing tires.
Last time I changed tires, I specifically asked the repair shop technician, and it turns out that having different production dates for new car tires is actually quite common. The car production line doesn’t wait for four tires from the same batch to be available before installation—just like how we might buy the same style of clothes from different production locations. As long as the date difference is within a few months—for example, the front tires are marked 0523 (indicating the 5th week of 2023) and the rear tires are 1023—it’s completely fine. The key is to check whether the tread depth is consistent and the tire pressure is even, as this ensures stable driving. My SUV has four tires with three different production weeks, and after two years of driving, there have been no issues at all. Just be wary of unscrupulous sellers trying to pass off old stock tires—tires older than two years are prone to rubber aging.
I think it depends on the specific situation. Last year when I picked up my new car, I noticed the manufacturing date of the left front tire was three months earlier than the right rear tire. The 4S dealership explained that mixed assembly from different batches is normal, as long as the tire models are the same and wear is even, it's safe. After some thought, it's like eating a fruit platter – fruits picked at different times don't differ much in taste. However, I pay extra attention to the tire pressure monitoring data to ensure even force distribution across all four wheels. If the manufacturing dates differ by more than six months, it might be worth keeping an eye out for any deformation or cracks in the tires. Also, don't forget to check the manufacturing date of the spare tire – that little guy often gets neglected for years.
