Even if they still appear to be in good condition, your tires may be fragile if they are too old. It is in your best interest to check their age by examining this special code written on the side.
We can never say it enough: tires are an essential element in a vehicle. They constitute the only link between the structure and the road and therefore contribute as much to comfort and performance as to safety. Also, it is essential to regularly check their condition, remembering that they do not last forever. And just like windshield wiper blades, they are consumables that must be replaced at the right time to ensure safe driving.
Of course, tires deteriorate over time, their rubber gradually tearing off with contact with the asphalt, more or less quickly depending on the driving style and their quality. And without mentioning the various shocks (kicks from the sidewalk and others) which can weaken their internal structure, they simply age over time. So, even if your tires do not show visible signs of wear or damage, experts recommend replacing them every eight years at the latest, knowing that their actual lifespan also depends on their conditions of use, their mileage and climatic factors.
Knowing the age of your tires is therefore crucial. Because even if a tire has not been used much, the rubber ages and loses its initial qualities. Older tires can develop cracks and internal damage that are invisible to the naked eye, increasing the risk of failure and compromising your driving safety.
No need to look for an invoice to determine the age of your tires: you just need to examine their sidewalls. This is where the DOT code (acronym for Department of Transportation) is written, which is a sort of tire identity card. This code is made up of several groups of numbers and letters, but only the last one with four digits is interesting because they indicate its date of manufacture. For example, if the code is “DOT XXXX YYY ZZZ 1520”, this means that the tire was manufactured in the 15th week of 2020 and is therefore four years old in 2024.
It is recommended to check your tires regularly, not only for visible wear but also for their age. A tire that is too old can be dangerous, even if it appears to be in good condition. If in doubt, it is better to consult a professional who can assess their condition and advise you on the need to replace them.
In addition to checking the age of your tires, be sure to maintain proper air pressure and monitor tread wear. Well-maintained tires not only improve the safety but also the performance of your vehicle, contributing to better fuel economy. Make sure your tires are always ready to take on the road by maintaining them properly and replacing them at the right time. Your safety depends on it.