A tyre with good tread but over 5 years old can still be dangerous. Learn how rubber degrades over time, how to check manufacture dates and when age — not tread — demands replacement.
Tread depth is the most visible indicator of tyre condition — but it's not the only one. Even a tyre with 4–5mm of tread can be dangerously degraded if it's more than six or seven years old. Rubber deteriorates from the inside out, and the damage isn't always visible on the surface.
How to Find Your Tyre's Age
Look for the DOT code on the tyre sidewall. The last four digits indicate the week and year of manufacture. For example, DOT XXXX 2319 means the 23rd week of 2019. A tyre manufactured in mid-2019 is now over six years old and approaching replacement territory regardless of tread.
What Age Does to Rubber
Ultraviolet radiation, heat cycling and oxidation gradually break down the polymer chains in rubber compound. This causes micro-cracking, increased hardness and loss of elasticity — all of which reduce grip, wet performance and resistance to sudden failure.
Industry age replacement guidelines:
- 5 years: Consider replacement, especially for high-mileage drivers
- 6–7 years: Strongly recommended replacement regardless of tread depth
- 10 years: Absolute maximum — must replace even if tread depth appears acceptable
Vehicles stored for extended periods (classic cars, campervans, low-mileage second cars) are especially susceptible to age-related tyre degradation. Check the DOT code before driving any car that's been sitting.
