Do Tyres Have an Expiry Date?

When it comes to the safety of your vehicle, tyres play an important role. But like many things in life, tyres don’t last forever. The question we often hear is: do tyres have an expiry date? While it’s true that tyres don’t have a strict “expiry date” like food or medication, they do have a shelf life.

How to Check Tyre Age – Tyre DOT Code Explained

Every tyre you buy has a date of manufacture stamped on it. This is called the DOT (Department of Transportation) code, which includes information about when and where the tyre was made, as well as it’s identification number. The last four digits of the DOT code represent the week and year the tyre was manufactured. For example, if the last four digits are “0720,” this means the tyre was manufactured in the 7^th week of the year 2020.

To find your tyre’s DOT code, look for the code imprinted on the sidewall of the tyre. This information can help you determine how old your tyres are. While tyres don’t have a strict “expiry date,” experts suggest that tyres older than 6 years should be monitored, and those older than 10 years should be replaced, regardless of tread depth or wear.

Tyre Age Law in New Zealand

In New Zealand, there are no specific laws that mandate replacing tyres based on age alone. However, safety standards are enforced, and tyres must meet certain requirements to be legally roadworthy. The general rule in New Zealand is that tyres must have at least 1.5mm of tread depth across the centre of the tyre, as this ensures good grip on the road, particularly in wet conditions.

While there’s no legal requirement to replace tyres solely because of their age, it’s essential to regularly inspect your tyres to ensure they remain safe for driving. The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) and tyre experts recommend that tyres over 6 years old be checked regularly for signs of wear, cracking, or damage.

Are Old Tyres Dangerous?

Yes, older or second hand tyres can pose a risk if not properly maintained. As tyres age, the rubber naturally breaks down over time due to exposure to factors like sunlight, heat, and chemicals. This process, known as oxidation, can cause the tyre to lose some of its flexibility, potentially affecting its performance and grip on the road. While tyres are designed to last, regular checks and proper care ensure they stay safe and perform at their best.

Tyres are also subject to wear and tear from driving habits. Hard braking, rapid acceleration, and high-speed cornering can all cause a tyre to wear unevenly, creating bulges, bald patches, or other damage.

When Should You Replace Tyres?

Replacing tyres is not just about the age; it’s also about the overall condition. The key signs that it’s time to replace your tyres include:

Low tread depth: 

If your tyres are worn down to less than 1.5mm, it’s time to replace them.

Cracking or bulging: 

Visible damage such as cracks or bulges on the sidewall or tread can indicate a serious safety risk.

Uneven wear: 

Uneven tread wear may suggest that your vehicle’s alignment is off, or that you have an issue with the suspension or tyre pressure.

Vibration or noise: 

If your car starts vibrating or making unusual noise while driving, it may be a sign of tyre damage or imbalance.

It’s also a good idea to replace your tyres every 6 years, even if they still have decent tread, and definitely by 10 years, as rubber degradation can make them unsafe after that time.

Ensuring Your Tyres Are Safe

Here are some steps you can take to ensure your tyres remain in good condition, as this plays a crucial role:

Tyre Pressure: 

Regularly check your tyre pressure. Underinflated tyres wear out more quickly, reducing their lifespan and performance. Overinflated tyres, on the other hand, can increase the risk of a blowout. Check your tyre pressure monthly or before long trips.

Wheel Alignment: 

Misalignment can cause uneven tyre wear, so have your vehicle’s wheel alignment checked regularly. Proper alignment ensures that your tyres wear evenly and last longer.

Tread Depth Check: 

Regularly measure the tread depth to make sure your tyres are still safe for wet weather conditions. You can use a simple tread depth gauge or a 20-cent coin to check.

Can Old Tyres Be Recycled?

Yes, old tyres can be recycled, and in fact, recycling tyres is important for reducing environmental waste. Never dispose of tyres in illegal dumping grounds, as they can pose environmental hazards and become dangerous when they catch fire. Used tyres can be repurposed for various products, such as rubber mats, road surfaces, or even used in energy production. When you have your tyres replaced, your fitter will take care of disposing of your old tyres in accordance with the new TyreWise scheme in NZ.

Let’s Summarise This for You…

Tyres don’t have a clear “expiry date” like food or medicine, but their age, condition, and maintenance are crucial for ensuring your safety on the road. Remember, it’s not just the age of the tyre that matters—it’s how well it’s been cared for and whether it’s still safe for driving. Regular tyre checks are essential for your safety, and when in doubt, consult a professional to ensure your tyres are up to the job.

If you’re looking to replace your tyres, make sure to choose the right fit for your vehicle and driving habits. At Tyre Shop Online, we make it easy for you to find the perfect tyres for your car, and with our convenient online ordering, you can have them delivered straight to your door or fitted by one of our trusted partners. Stay safe out there!

Happy Motoring!