How to Read Tire Date Codes and the Importance of DOT Numbers

Have you ever had trouble reading the DOT number on your tires or figuring out how to read tire date codes? If you've misplaced your purchase receipt, determining the exact age of your tires can be challenging. Fortunately, the answer is right on your tires. Here's how to decode those important numbers.

Whether you're financing your tires with our no credit needed lease-to-own programs or purchasing them outright, understanding tire date codes is crucial. These numbers are found on the tire sidewall and can provide essential information about the tire's age and origin.

Examine all sides of your tires. You will notice a series of numbers and letters that might initially seem confusing. However, this information is vital. Look for a number starting with "DOT" followed by a series of 10 to 12 characters. This code contains information about the tire size, the manufacturing year, and the place of manufacture, as well as a unique manufacturer code.

For tires manufactured in the year 2000 or later, the last four digits of the DOT code indicate the date of manufacture. The first two digits represent the week, and the last two digits represent the year. For example, if the DOT code ends in "0203," the tire was manufactured in the 2nd week of 2003.

For tires made before 2000, the date is represented by the last three digits of the DOT code. The first two digits represent the week of manufacture, and the last digit indicates the year within the decade. For example, if the code reads "229," the tire was manufactured in the 22nd week of a year ending in '9' of that decade, such as 1999. Unfortunately there’s no way to tell which decade you’re looking at, other than it’s before the year 2000.

Current DOT regulations require the complete DOT number to be on one sidewall only. If you find an incomplete DOT number, check the opposite sidewall for the full code.

Now that you know how to read tire date codes, you can easily check the sidewalls of your tires to avoid any confusion. Additionally, always keep your purchase receipts in a safe place to ensure you receive any warranty benefits.

If you have any questions about DOT numbers or anything else tire related, feel free to chat, call or text Dan at 207-316-2258. We’re here to answer your questions and help you Monday through Friday.