How do you identify old tires?

To determine the age of your tires, check the last four digits of the U.S. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) number stamped on the tire’s sidewall contains a date code that identifies the age of your tires.

How old can tires be and still be safe?

Old tires are dangerous, regardless of tread depth. While there’s no federally sanctioned safety guidance on when a tire is too old to be safe, many carmakers recommend replacement at six years from the date of manufacture.

Is there a manufacture date on tires?

Every tire has a birth date—the day it was manufactured—and an expiration date that is six years from that manufacture date. Most automobile manufacturers warn drivers to replace vehicle tires after six years. However, tires manufactured before the year 2000 have a 10-character code.

What happens to tires after 10 years?

Any tire over ten years old is too weak to ensure safe driving. At this age, it’s imperative that you replace your tires. For your safety, we will not service any tires aged 10 years or older.

Is it safe to buy a used tire?

The used tire industry in the U.S. is completely unregulated – there’s simply no guarantee that used tires for sale are safe. Sometimes tread wear is visible on used tires – but tires can also have internal damage that’s completely invisible. Even if used tires don’t appear worn, they could be quite old.

Can I use 10 year old tires?

It may be tentative, but tires do have an expiration date. There is a general consensus that most tires should be inspected, if not replaced, at about six years and should be absolutely be swapped out after 10 years, regardless of how much tread they have left.

Do unused tires go bad?

The Evidence Is Clear: Tires Should Have An Expiration Date. This is because tires are made mostly of rubber, and rubber degrades with age. Sunlight, heat, ice, and general wear and tear can accelerate the breakdown of a tire. For most tires, this expiration date should be six years from the date of manufacture.