How to tell the age of a tyre
24th September 2025
Whether you’re checking the state of your current tyres or buying second-hand, knowing how to tell the age of a tyre is a key part of vehicle maintenance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to find a tyre’s age, including what signs to look out for, and when it might be time for a replacement.
Why Does Tyre Age Matter?
Even if your tyre tread still meets legal requirements, tyres degrade with age. Rubber hardens over time, reducing flexibility and increasing the risk of cracking or splitting. Exposure to UV rays, fluctuating temperatures, and general wear all contribute to this process. A tyre that’s several years old can become unsafe, especially in wet or cold weather.
How to Check the Age of Your Tyres
To find out how old your tyre is, you need to check the DOT code. This code is stamped into the sidewall of the tyre and shows when it was manufactured. You’ll find a longer alphanumeric string (a string that contains letters and numbers) that starts with the letters DOT, followed by several numbers and letters. The key information you need is the last four digits.
These four numbers represent the week and year the tyre was made.
For example:
- 2320 means the tyre was made in the 23rd week of 2020.
- 0518 means it was manufactured in the 5th week of 2018.
If your tyre only shows a three-digit code, it means it was made before the year 2000 and is well past the recommended age limit. You will have to replace the tyre straight away if this is the case to ensure your car is roadworthy.
How Long Do Tyres Last?
Most manufacturers recommend replacing tyres every six to ten years, regardless of how much tread is left. The other determining factors include the tyre’s storage conditions, usage, and exposure to weather. However, regular inspection is just as important as checking the date.
If your tyres are more than five years old, then it’s a good idea to have them professionally checked at least once a year, even if they appear to be fine at a glance.
Which Tyres Last the Longest in the UK?
If you’re looking for long-lasting tyres, premium brands offer better durability, performance, and safety. Tyres from brands like Michelin, Continental, and Bridgestone are known for lasting longer under normal road conditions in the UK. Although, your tyre lifespan will still depend on how you drive, the roads you use, and how well you look after them.
Signs Your Tyres May Be Too Old
Even if you don’t spot any obvious cracks or wear, tyres may still be too old to perform properly. Watch out for:
- A rough, hardened surface
- Tiny cracks in the rubber
- A change in handling or grip
- Increased road noise
- Loss of pressure without a puncture
If you notice any of these signs, get them checked by a specialist.
Keep Your Tyres in Check with Merityre
At Merityre, we stock a wide range of durable tyres from trusted manufacturers to keep your vehicle safe when on the road. If you're still unsure about the condition or age of your tyres, pop into your nearest Merityre branch and let our expert team take a look. We’ll help you find the right fit for your car, your driving style, and your budget.