You rely on your tires every time you hit the road—but do you know how old they are? Even if the tread looks fine, aging tires can pose serious safety risks. Over time, rubber breaks down, causing cracks, weak spots, and reduced strength in the tire structure. That’s why knowing your tire’s age is just as important as checking tread depth or air pressure.
Why Tire Age Matters
Tires naturally deteriorate from the inside out. Sun exposure, heat, and everyday driving all speed up this process. Once a tire reaches around six years old, the bond between the rubber and steel belts begins to weaken, which increases the risk of cracks, air leaks, or even blowouts. In short—an older tire may look fine but still be unsafe.
How to Check the Age of Your Tire
Luckily, every tire comes with a built-in “birthday.” On the tire’s sidewall, you’ll find the DOT code, a series of numbers and letters that includes the week and year of manufacture.
Here’s how it works:
- The last four digits of the DOT code tell you the week and year the tire was made.
- Example: 4718 means the 47th week of 2018.
- If you see only three digits, your tire was made before 2000. If that’s the case, the tire should be replaced immediately, no matter the tread depth.
When to Replace Tires
- After 6 years: Have a professional inspect your tires, even if they still look good.
- After 10 years: Replace them, regardless of mileage or appearance.
- Anytime you see cracks, bulges, or tread separation: Replace immediately
Keep Tires in Top Shape
Regular maintenance helps extend tire life. Services like rotation, balancing, alignment, and timely repairs can prevent premature wear and keep your tires safer for longer. Not sure how old your tires are or if they’re safe to drive on? Visit Sunset Tire and Service in Osage Beach, MO. Schedule an appointment today and our experts will check your tires, help you understand their condition, and recommend the right replacement when it’s time.
Protect Your Safety and Your Wallet
Maintaining your brakes isn’t just about avoiding costly repairs—it’s about peace of mind every time you hit the road. With smart driving habits and regular service, you can improve brake performance, extend their lifespan, and avoid emergencies.
At Charlie’s Tire Service in Brevard, NC, our technicians provide thorough brake inspections, repairs, and replacements to keep you safe.
