Drivers told to check little-known 4 number code on every car in UK

Résumé détaillé

Motorists have been told to check a little-known four-digit code printed on the side of every car in the UK. James Harding, an expert at tyre retailer BlackCircles, has warned…

Motorists have been told to check a little-known four-digit code printed on the side of every car in the UK. James Harding, an expert at tyre retailer BlackCircles, has warned road users should be aware of their tyre’s age, with a simple four-digit check anyone can do at home. Older rubber is likely to lose flexibility and grip, with old tyres more at risk of picking up microscopic cracks.

However, a previous Tyre Knowledge Report from BlackCircles found that only 35% of drivers correctly understood what the DOT number on a tyre tells them, with 38% admitting they didn't know. Speaking exclusively to The Express, James added: “Tyre age is another factor that's worth being aware of, particularly if a driver has bought a used car or doesn't know when the tyres were fitted. The date marking on a tyre's sidewall can help identify when it was manufactured.

The DOT code is a four-digit number plastered on the side of each individual tyre constructed after the year 2000 and clearly explains when each one was constructed. The first two digits indicate the week that the tyre was manufactured, with the last two digits highlighting the year of production.

It means tyres reading ‘0517’ was constructed in the fifth week of the year 2017, while the number ‘2523’ would indicate the 25th week of the year 2023. However, James stressed that it was usually the condition of the tyre itself that was more important than its age. He explained that running an older tyre by itself wasn’t a disaster as long as the compound looked to be in good condition.

“Age alone doesn't necessarily mean a tyre is unsafe or needs replacing. A tyre that's only a couple of years old, with plenty of tread and no signs of deterioration, wouldn't ordinarily be a cause for concern simply because of its manufacture date. It's the combination of age, condition, usage and maintenance that matters.”

The RAC previously explained that the age of a tyre “significantly impacts its lifespan and safety”.

However, they stressed…

Début de l'article, extrait de Daily Express. Pour lire la suite, ouvrez l'article chez le média.