Ever been in a situation where you’re about to buy new tyres and wonder if they’re really “new”? Or maybe you’re checking your car’s tyres and want to know if they’ve been on the road for too long?
We’re familiar with how tricky driving on Indian roads can be, and it only makes sense to ensure that your car’s tyres are fresh and reliable.
But how do you know when your tyres were manufactured?
Don’t worry—finding out your tyre’s manufacturing date is easier than figuring out a road detour in traffic.
Step 1: Look for the DOT Code
On the sidewall of every tyre, you’ll find something called a DOT (Department of Transportation) code. The DOT code is usually 10-12 characters long and starts with the letters “DOT.”
Step 2: Look at the Last Four Digits
The tyre’s manufacturing date is hidden in the last four digits of the DOT code. These numbers tell you when the tyre was made—both the week and the year. Here’s how to read it:
- First two digits: Show the week. If it’s “10,” that means the tyre was made in the 10th week of the year (around March).
- Last two digits: Show the year. So, if it says “23,” the tyre was made in 2023.
For example, a DOT code ending in “1023” means the tyre was made in the 10th week of 2023.
Step 3: Check Both Sides of the Tyre
Sometimes, the DOT code only appears on one side of the tyre. If you can’t find it on the side you’re looking at, flip to the other side and check there.
Why is a Tyre’s Manufacturing Date Important?
Tyres only last about 5–6 years, even if they haven’t been used much. As they age, they harden and lose grip, which can be dangerous—especially on India’s unpredictable roads. It’s important to buy new tyres and not rely on older ones, even if they look unused. Checking the manufacturing date helps you make sure you’re getting fresh tyres that’ll last longer and work better.
Quick Tips for Drivers:
- Check the date before buying: Always ask the dealer to show you the DOT code. This way, you know you’re not getting tyres that have been sitting around too long.
- Look for tyres under 2 years old: For the best performance, try to get tyres made in the last year or two.
- Replace old tyres: If your tyres are over 5 years old, it’s probably time to replace them, even if they look fine.
Your tyres are the only thing connecting your car to the road, so their age matters. Knowing how to find tyre manufacturing date helps you make better and safer choices. Next time you’re at the tyre shop or checking them at home, take a second to look for that DOT code. It’s a quick check that can save you a lot of hassle—and give you a smoother, safer ride!
