Read off tire age – this is how it works

To assess the condition of a tire, you should also read off its age. Tires should be replaced after ten years at the latest.

Reading the age of a tire – this is how you proceed

On all tires produced today you will find the so-called DOT notation (“Department of Transportion”). You can read several information about the tire from this string:

• The DOT notation always starts with the string “DOT”. It is located on the outside of the tire. This is followed by two up to four-digit abbreviations for the manufacturing plant and the tire size. The last four digits are of interest to you.

• These four numbers describe the production week as well as the production year. For example, if the sequence reads “5012”, the tire was produced in calendar week 50 in 2012.

• The age of a tire is not actually relevant by law. The tread depth is the deciding factor when it comes to whether a new set of tires is needed. However, car tires should generally be changed after ten years at the latest.

• By the way, it is worth taking a look at the age of the tire not only when buying used tires. If the tires have been stored properly, retailers are allowed to sell up to 3-year-old, unused tires as brand new and up to 5-year-old tires as new.

Tire age and environmental factors: How weather and sun exposure affect durability

The age of a tire is not only important for road safety, but also for the durability of the tire itself.

• While tread depth is often used as an indicator of the condition of the tire, environmental factors such as weather and sun exposure can affect durability.

• The rubber compound in a tire can become porous over time, resulting in cracks and breaks.

• Especially tires that have been stored unused for long periods of time can be affected by these environmental factors.

• To extend the shelf life of a tire, they should always be stored in a cool, dry and dark place.

• If a tire is more than six years old, it should be checked regularly by an expert for durability and safety.

• If a tire shows signs of cracking or breaking, it should be replaced immediately, regardless of its age.