How to Check If Your Car Tires Are Expired and Where to Find the Manufacturing Date

(Photo credit : Apollo Tyres)

Car tires are one of the most crucial components of a vehicle, as they are the only part that makes direct contact with the road.

Even if your car is in perfect mechanical condition, worn or expired tires can compromise safety and performance. Old tires can become brittle, lose grip, and increase the risk of accidents such as blowouts or poor traction on wet surfaces.

That’s why every driver should know how to check whether their tires are expired and how to read the manufacturing date correctly.

Lifespan of Car Tires

On average, car tires have a lifespan of about 4–5 years from the date of manufacture. Even if the tread looks fine, the rubber compound deteriorates over time due to exposure to sunlight, heat, and environmental factors.

For vehicles that are frequently driven or subjected to harsh road conditions, tires may wear out faster. Similarly, tires on cars that are rarely used but parked in the sun can also degrade prematurely.

How to Tell If Your Tires Are Expired

1. Check the physical condition

   • Cracks on the sidewall or tread area

   • Rubber feels hard and less flexible

   • Tread wear reaching the Tread Wear Indicator (TWI)

2. Look for the DOT code 
   Every tire has a DOT code printed on the sidewall, which contains information about the manufacturer, model, and most importantly, the week and year of production. The last four digits of the DOT code represent the production date:

   • 2721 = 27th week of 2021

   • 1019 = 10th week of 2019

3. For tires manufactured after the year 2000, the DOT code always has 4 digits. Older tires may have only 3 digits, but these are now rarely seen on the market.

4. Remember: Tire age counts from the production date, not the purchase date Tires sitting in storage for years can degrade even before being used. Always check the manufacturing date and choose tires that are less than a year old when purchasing.

Tire Replacement Tips

• Replace your tires every 4–5 years, regardless of tread depth, to ensure safety.

• Regularly check tire pressure and inspect tread wear every 10,000 km.

• Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight when parking, as UV rays accelerate tire aging.

If you notice bulges, cracks, or deformities, replace the tire immediately.

Read More:  Top Tire Brands for 2025: Find the Best Fit for Your Car

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