Look for a DOT code on the sidewall ending in four digits. The first two are the week of manufacture and the last two are the year: 3223 means the 32nd week of 2023.
Age matters because rubber hardens and develops fine cracks over time, even on a tire with plenty of tread. Many manufacturers suggest replacing tires at around six years and treating ten years as an absolute limit regardless of appearance.
This is especially worth checking on spare tires, caravans, trailers and low-mileage classics, where a tire can look new and still be well past its useful life.
Ask us for a free tire inspection if you are unsure how old yours are.