How to tell how old a tyre is (and why it matters for your safety)

Wondering how old is too old for a tyre? Or how to tell how old a tyre is? What exactly is a tyre date code, anyway? Stay tuned, we’re about to answer all of your questions!

Tyres are one of the most important parts of your 4×4 setup – it goes without saying. But what plenty of people don’t realise is that even if your tyres look fine, they could be quietly turning into a safety hazard.

Yep, that tread might still have plenty of meat on it, but if the rubber is aging, it could be hardening, cracking, and fatiguing. Worse still, some of that damage can happen where you can’t see it – inside the tyre itself.

And considering your tyres are the only thing between you and the road, it’s fair to ask: are they safe?

How old is too old for a tyre?

This is one of those questions that gets you a different answer depending on who you ask. Some say five years, some say ten. But here’s the thing – just because a tyre looks fine doesn’t mean it is fine.

Kumho recommends replacing tyres at around the 5-6 year mark, even if they appear to be in good condition. And during filming Are You RV Safe?, Borgy reckoned the general rule of thumb is that once a tyre hits about five years of age, you really want to get a professional to check it out.

From that point onwards, it’s a good idea to get your tyres inspected annually – because let’s face it, a blowout at 100km/h is not how you want to start your next trip.

How to tell how old a tyre is

Believe it or not, tyres actually come with a birthdate stamped right on them.

On the sidewall of most tyres, you’ll find a four-digit code (a tyre date code) inside an oval, which tells you exactly when your tyre was made.

Here’s how to read it:

• The first two digits = the week of the year it was manufactured.
• The last two digits = the year it was manufactured.

So, if you see 1423 stamped on the side of your tyre, (like the image below) that means it was made in the 14th week of 2023 (somewhere around early April).

This little code is your best mate when it comes to checking the age of a tyre—because a fresh-looking tyre sitting in a shop could already be a few years old!

Should you replace your tyres?

If your tyres are pushing five years or more, it’s time for an expert opinion. A tyre professional can check for hidden cracks, internal damage, and general wear that could be putting you at risk.

And if they tell you it’s time for a new set, don’t put it off. Tyres aren’t just about comfort; they’re your first line of defence on the road.

So, check that tyre date code, book in that inspection, and make sure your next adventure is as safe as it is fun.

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Jessica Palmer