When Do Tyres Expire?

Tyres do not have a printed “use-by” date like food, but rubber compounds harden and crack over time. Most manufacturers suggest considering replacement around ten years from manufacture for road use, regardless of tread.

Read the DOT date code

The last four digits of the DOT code on the sidewall show week and year (e.g. 2321 = week 23 of 2021). Prior to 2000 a three-digit code was used.

Why age matters

Heat, UV, underinflation, and long storage accelerate oxidation. Trailers, caravans, and spare tyres often “die of old age” with plenty of tread left.

Inspect older tyres often

Monthly pressure checks and visual inspection for cracks, deformation, or vibration catch failures before highway trips.