How to Check Tyre Year
A tyre expiry date indicates the end of a tyre’s safe usability. Understanding the condition of the tires you own is essential for many reasons. The tires degrade with time, even though they've got ample tread. If you don’t know how to check tyre year, look for the DOT number on the tire sidewall:
- The DOT number is a 4-digit number.
- The first two digits represent the week of production.
- The last two digits represent the year of production.
Example:
- DOT code: 2523
- Week of production: 25
- Year of production: 2023
Where to Find the Tyre Manufacturing Date
The manufacturing date is part of the DOT code (Department of Transportation code) embossed on the sidewall of the tyre. This code contains vital information about the tyre’s production details.
Reading the DOT Code
DOT code is composed of a sequence of letters and numbers that provide specific information regarding the tire. To determine the date of manufacture, you need to seek out a 4-digit number in that DOT number.
Tyres Manufactured After 2000
The last four numbers of the DOT code represent the date of manufacture in tires manufactured after 2000. The first two numbers represent the week of manufacturing, and the other two numbers represent the year. For instance, If you have the number "2314," it means that the tire was made in the 23rd week of 2014.
Tyres Manufactured before 2000
In this case, the last three digits in the DOT code are the manufacturing date. The first two numbers represent the week of manufacturing, and the last digit indicates the year in the decade. To differentiate these tires from earlier decades, a triangle symbol is usually depicted.
Tyre Expiry Regulations in the UAE
In the UAE, tyres have a legal lifespan of five years from the date of manufacture. After this period, they are considered unsafe and illegal to use. When purchasing new tyres, ensure they are not older than six months from the manufacturing date to maximize their usability. Failing to comply with these regulations can lead to fines and endanger your safety.
Tips for Checking Tyre Expiry During Purchase
- Inspect the DOT Code: Always check the manufacturing date before buying tyres.
- Avoid Old Stock: Ensure the tyres are not older than six months to allow for maximum usage.
- Verify Storage Conditions: Tyres stored in improper conditions may degrade faster, even if they are within the expiry date.
- Seek Professional Advice: Visit a trusted tyre shop Dubaito ensure the tyres meet safety standards.
Importance of Regular Tyre Inspections
While checking the expiry date is essential, regular inspections are equally important. Look for:
- Uneven tread wear.
- Cracks or bulges on the sidewalls.
- Loss of air pressure.
- Vibrations while driving.
What to Do If Your Tyres Are Expired
- Replace Expired Tyres: Do not use tyres beyond their expiry date. Replace them immediately.
- Recycle Responsibly: Dispose of old tyres through authorized recycling centers.
- Invest in Quality Tyres: Choose high-quality tyres that suit your vehicle’s needs. Check for deals like “tyre price in UAE” to find affordable options.
Why PitStopArabia?
PitStopArabia is the leading online tire shop in the UAE. We offer a wide selection of tires from all the leading brands, like Michelin, Bridgestone, and Dunlop, at competitive prices. We also have experienced technicians who will fit your new tires for you quickly and efficiently at a time and location that suits you.
FAQ’s
Why is it important to know the age of my tires?
The reason for this is that the rubber compound used in tires breaks down due to heat, sunlight,, and oxygen. Tires older than 10 years are much more likely to suffer blowouts, even if they have a sufficient tread depth.
How do I check the tire year?
To verify the year of the tire, you need to look for the DOT number in the sidewall. This is a 4-digit number which indicates the week and the year that the tire was produced. The first two numbers represent the week, and the final two numbers indicate the year.
What does it mean if my tire is more than 10 years old?
If your tire is older than 10 years, It is recommended to replace it, regardless of the tread depth. This is because tires degrade with time and are more likely to suffer from an air blowout.
Where do I locate a DOT number on my tire?
The DOT number is typically located close to the bead of tyres, in the sidewall. It's a four-digit number that is elevated over the rest of the sidewall.
