Your car's tyres are crucial components that ensure your safety and vehicle's optimal performance. Over time, tyres degrade due to factors such as wear and tear, exposure to weather elements, and improper inflation. Therefore, it is essential to regularly inspect your tyres and replace them when necessary.

One of the key factors to consider when evaluating your tyres is their age. Tyres have a lifespan of approximately six years, and it is recommended to replace them even if they show minimal external wear after this period. Checking the manufacturing date of your tyres is a simple process that can help you determine their age and plan for replacement accordingly.

What is the Tyre Manufacturing Date?

The tyre manufacturing date is a four-digit code embedded on the tyre's sidewall. The first two digits represent the week of manufacture, while the last two digits represent the year of manufacture. For instance, if the code is "2319," it indicates that the tyre was manufactured in the 23rd week of 2019.

How to Check the Tyre Manufacturing Date

To locate the tyre manufacturing date, follow these steps:

1. Identify the tyre sidewall: The sidewall is the curved surface of the tyre that extends from the tread to the bead.
2. Look for the DOT code: The DOT code is a mandatory marking that appears on all tyres manufactured since 2000. It typically consists of a series of alphanumeric characters followed by a four-digit number.
3. Locate the four-digit code: The four-digit code is the last part of the DOT code. The first two digits represent the week of manufacture, and the last two digits represent the year of manufacture.

Understanding the Tyre Manufacturing Date Code

For example, consider the following DOT code:

DOT M707 1223

In this code, "M707" is the manufacturer's code, "12" represents the week of manufacture (12th week), and "23" represents the year of manufacture (2023). Therefore, the tyre was manufactured in the 12th week of 2023.

Tyre Replacement Recommendations

While tyre manufacturers provide specific guidelines for tyre replacement, it is generally recommended to replace them every six years, regardless of their condition. This is because tyres degrade over time, even if they show minimal wear. The rubber compound in tyres hardens with age, making them less flexible and more prone to cracking or failure.

Factors Affecting Tyre Age

Several factors can affect the lifespan of your tyres, including:

• Driving habits: Aggressive driving, such as hard cornering and sudden acceleration or braking, can accelerate tyre wear.
• Road conditions: Driving on rough or uneven roads can increase tyre wear and tear.
• Tyre pressure: Improper tyre inflation, whether over- or underinflated, can cause uneven wear and shorten the tyre's lifespan.
• Tyre storage: Storing tyres in extreme temperatures or exposing them to sunlight can accelerate rubber degradation.

Tips for Extending Tyre Life

To extend the life of your tyres and ensure their optimal performance, follow these tips:

1. Maintain proper tyre pressure: Check your tyre pressure regularly and adjust it as needed.
2. Practice safe driving habits: Avoid aggressive driving and sudden maneuvers.
3. Rotate your tyres: Rotate your tyres every 6,000 to 8,000 miles to ensure even wear.
4. Inspect your tyres regularly: Check for signs of wear, damage, or uneven tread.
5. Store your tyres properly: Store your tyres in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

By following these tips, you can extend the lifespan of your tyres and ensure your safety on the road. Remember, regular tyre checks and timely replacements are crucial for maintaining your vehicle's performance and your safety.