{"id":2228,"date":"2024-12-31T09:40:35","date_gmt":"2024-12-30T23:40:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.autohero.com.au\/blog\/?p=2228"},"modified":"2024-12-31T12:17:23","modified_gmt":"2024-12-31T02:17:23","slug":"the-date-a-tyre-was-manufactured","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.autohero.com.au\/blog\/the-date-a-tyre-was-manufactured\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Tell a Tyre\u2019s Age"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"How<\/h2>\n

Looking for the age of a tyre on your vehicle? Or maybe you’ve just worked out how old your tyres are and want to check they’re still safe?<\/p>\n

Either way – don’t panic, we’re here to help. This guide will explain how to find out the age of your tyres from your tyre sidewall, some figures on tyre life, and a few tips on keeping new tyres in the best possible condition.<\/p>\n

Quick Answer<\/h2>\n

To check your tyre’s age, look for the “DOT” code on the sidewall. The last four digits indicate the week and year of manufacture (e.g., 1220 means the 12th week of 2020). Tyres older than six years should be inspected or replaced for safety.<\/p>\n

Why Tyre Age Matters<\/h2>\n

Even tyres that look unused or have plenty of tread might be unsafe due to their age. Over time, the materials in tyres\u2014rubber, textile, and steel\u2014naturally degrade, compromising their strength and reliability. Driving on old tyres increases the risk of cracking, separation of steel belts, and even complete tyre failure, which can be extremely dangerous.<\/p>\n

What Happens to Tyres as They Age?<\/h3>\n
    \n
  1. Material Breakdown<\/strong>
    \nTyres are made from a combination of rubber, steel, and textiles. As these materials age, they lose their elasticity and bonding strength.<\/li>\n
  2. Exposure to Elements<\/strong>
    \nUV rays, heat, and moisture accelerate the degradation process. Even tyres stored indoors are affected over time.<\/li>\n
  3. Cracking<\/strong>
    \nCracks can appear on the surface and within the tyre\u2019s structure. These cracks weaken the tyre’s rubber compound, increasing the likelihood of failure under load.<\/li>\n
  4. Steel Belt Separation<\/strong>
    \nIn old tyres, the bond between the rubber and the steel belts weakens. This can cause the belts to separate from the tread, leading to catastrophic failure while driving.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    How to Check a Tyre\u2019s Age<\/h2>\n

    Finding your tyre\u2019s age is straightforward. Follow these steps:<\/p>\n

    \"tyre<\/p>\n

    Example: 2118<\/strong> would mean the tyre was manufactured in the 21st week of 2018<\/strong><\/p>\n

    Step 1: Locate the DOT Code<\/h3>\n

    On the sidewall of every tyre, there\u2019s a code that starts with the letters “DOT” (Department of Transportation). This code provides important information, including the tyre\u2019s place of manufacture and its age.<\/p>\n

    Step 2: Decode the Last Four Digits<\/h3>\n

    Focus on the last four digits of the DOT code. These numbers indicate the week and year the tyre was manufactured.<\/p>\n