Many vehicle owners notice the four-digit number printed on the tyre's sidewall but don't pay much attention to it. Some mistake it for a serial number, while others think it indicates the tyre model.
In reality, these four digits reveal when the tyre was manufactured. Learning to read this code takes less than a minute and can help you make better decisions when buying tyres.
What is the 4-digit tyre code?
The four-digit code is the easiest way to determine when a tyre was made. Tyre manufacturers use a 'week and year' format instead of a standard calendar date.
Here is how it works:
First two digits: Week of manufacture
Last two digits: Year of manufacture
For example:1824
- 18 stands for the 18th week of the year.
- 24 means the tyre was manufactured in 2024.
- So, this tyre was made in the 18th week of 2024.
Why isn't the exact date printed on the tyre?
Many people look for an exact tyre manufacturing date, like April 18, 2024, but tyres don't use that system. Production happens in batches, so companies identify tyres based on the production week rather than a specific day.
This standard format is used worldwide, making it easy to determine the tire's age without confusion.
Also Read this: 7 Tips for Selecting the Right Vehicle Tyres
Common mistakes when reading the code
One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is reading the numbers in reverse.
For example, 3522 does not mean the 35th day or the 22nd month. This simply means:
- Week 35
- Year 2022
Another common mistake is confusing the manufacturing code with other numbers printed on the sidewall. Tire size, load index, and speed rating are printed separately and should not be mistaken for the manufacturing date.
When should you check the code?
Always check the four-digit code before buying a new tyre. If you are replacing just one tyre, it is also a good idea to compare its manufacturing date with that of the other tyres already on your vehicle. Matching production dates helps maintain consistent performance.
Reading this short code takes only a few seconds, but it provides very useful information before making a purchase.
Read Full News: How Can I Check Tyre Manufacturing Date?
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does a tyre code like 3522 mean?
It means the tyre was manufactured in the 35th week of 2022.
2. Does every tyre have a 4-digit code?
Yes. Modern tyres from major manufacturers have a manufacturing code on the sidewall.
3. Can I determine the exact manufacturing date from the code?
No, the code only indicates the production week and year, not the specific day or month.
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