I’m a mechanic – here is how to check exactly how old your tyres are and when they need changing
A MECHANIC revealed it How to check the exact age of your tires and find out when they need to be changed.
Craig from Walsall Wood Tire & Service in Walsall, West Midlands, uploaded a TikTok clip to explain how it’s easy to find out the date of manufacture.
2
2
The engine expert said: “We all check our tire pressure. We all check our tire treads. But how many of us check our tire age?”
According to Craig, a tire’s materials begin to break down once it is ten years old and should be replaced for safety reasons.
He continued: “There are loads of marks around the tyre. From the size to the aspect ratio, the rim size to the construction.”
Craig then points to a four-digit DOT code in an oval on the sidewall, indicating the age of the tire.
The first two digits indicate the calendar week in which it was manufactured (from 1 to 52), and the second two digits indicate the year of manufacture.
Social media Commenters expressed gratitude for the advice.
One wrote: “Great video. Just replaced two on my wife’s car. I now need some for my caravan that I think will last five years.”
Another said: “Turns out my tires are 14 years old. It’s probably time to replace them.”
Drivers can be hit with 12 points, a fine of £2,500 per tire and even a driving ban if their car is not roadworthy.
It comes after Craig told viewers the truth about whether a car seat can cause you to fail your MOT.
Meanwhile, another mechanic revealed how to make sure you don’t get scammed when buying a used car.