Tire Date Code Calculator | DOT Code & Tire Age Calculator FREE
Tire date code calculator reveals age instantly! Enter DOT code to see manufacture date & safety warnings. Are your tires too old? Check FREE now!
This tire date code calculator helps you determine your tire's age using the DOT code found on the sidewall. Tires degrade over time due to exposure to the elements and oxidation, even if they have ample tread depth. Knowing your tire's manufacturing date is essential for safety. Most manufacturers recommend replacing tires after 6 to 10 years, regardless of tread wear.
**How the Tire Date Code Works:** The DOT (Department of Transportation) code on a tire's sidewall includes a date code: - **Post-2000:** The last four digits indicate the week and year of manufacture (e.g., '4519' means the 45th week of 2019). - **Pre-2000:** The last three digits were used. The first two are the week, and the last is the year of that decade (e.g., '322' could be the 32nd week of 1992). This calculator assumes the 1990s for 3-digit codes.
This tire date code calculator and DOT code checker helps you decode these numbers to find out exactly how old your tires are and whether they need replacement for safety.
- Locate the DOT code on your tire's sidewall. It typically begins with 'DOT' followed by a series of letters and numbers.
- Identify the last 3 or 4 digits of the full DOT code. These digits represent the date code.
- Enter these 3 or 4 digits into the 'DOT Date Code' field in the calculator.
- Click the "Calculate Age" button.
- The results will display the tire's manufacturing week and year, and its current age.
- Pay attention to any warnings if the tire is over 6 years old.
How does this tire date code calculator work?
Our tire date code calculator reads the DOT manufacturing code on your tire sidewall. Simply enter the last 3 or 4 digits of the DOT code, and the calculator instantly shows your tire's manufacture date, current age, and safety recommendations.
Is this a tire DOT code calculator?
Yes! This is a comprehensive tire DOT code calculator that decodes the Department of Transportation date codes. It works with both 3-digit (pre-2000) and 4-digit (post-2000) DOT codes to determine your tire's exact manufacturing date and age.
How do I find the DOT code on my tire?
Look for 'DOT' followed by 10-12 letters and numbers on your tire's sidewall. The DOT code is usually on the inner sidewall. The last 3 or 4 digits are the manufacturing date code you need for this calculator.
What's the difference between 3-digit and 4-digit DOT codes?
4-digit codes (used since 2000) show week and year (e.g., 2319 = 23rd week of 2019). 3-digit codes (pre-2000) show week and year of the decade (e.g., 238 = 23rd week of 1998). This calculator assumes 1990s for 3-digit codes.
How old is too old for tires?
Most tire manufacturers recommend replacing tires after 6-10 years, regardless of tread depth. Tires over 6 years should be inspected annually by a professional. Tires over 10 years should be replaced immediately for safety.
Can I use this calculator for any tire brand?
Yes! This DOT date code calculator works for all tire brands sold in the US. The DOT code format is standardized by the Department of Transportation and is the same across all manufacturers.
What if I can't find the complete DOT code?
If you can only find the first part of the DOT code, look on the other sidewall - the complete code is usually on the inner sidewall. If still not visible, the tire may be mounted incorrectly or the code may be worn off.
Why is tire age important for safety?
Tire rubber degrades over time due to UV exposure, ozone, and heat cycles, causing internal structure breakdown. This leads to increased risk of blowouts, loss of traction, and structural failure - even with good tread depth.
This calculator provides an age estimate based on the DOT code. Always physically inspect tires for signs of aging, such as cracking in the sidewalls, regardless of calculated age or tread depth. Consult a tire professional if you have any doubts about tire safety.
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