Checking a tire’s age is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and safety. Tires degrade over time due to exposure to environmental factors such as sunlight, heat, and moisture. Knowing how to check a tire’s age empowers drivers to make informed decisions about tire maintenance and replacement.
The Department of Transportation (DOT) mandates that all tires manufactured after 2000 have a Tire Identification Number (TIN) molded into the sidewall. The TIN contains vital information, including the tire’s age. The last four digits of the TIN represent the week and year of production. For instance, a TIN ending in “1518” indicates that the tire was manufactured in the 15th week of 2018.