Check Used Vehicle Tires for Hidden Safety Risks
Used car buyers should verify tire manufacturing dates to avoid unexpected replacement costs for aging, brittle rubber.
Updated on Oct. 25, 2026 in Car Maintenance
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Do you check the manufacture date of tires when buying a used car?
A Utah driver recently discovered the tires on his $43,000 used 2016 Mercedes-AMG C63 S were nine years old after a tire pressure warning light prompted an inspection. The discovery highlights the importance of checking tire manufacturing dates during vehicle purchases, as the owner now faces an unexpected $2,000 replacement bill.
Why it matters
Checking tire age is a critical safety step, as industry leaders like Goodyear and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration advise replacing tires that are six to 10 years old. Failing to verify the manufacturing date can lead to significant out-of-pocket costs and compromise road safety regardless of tread depth.
The vehicle's tires, identified by the code 0517, were produced between January 29 and February 4, 2017. Replacing these tires is estimated to cost the owner $2,000 for a car showing 31,000 miles on the odometer.
The players
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
A federal agency that sets safety standards and provides consumer guidance on vehicle maintenance and fraud prevention.
Goodyear
A major tire manufacturer that provides safety recommendations regarding the service life of tires.
Michelin
A global tire manufacturer that advises on maintenance intervals and safety inspections for aging tires.
The details
Tire age can be verified by reading the Department of Transportation code embossed on the sidewall. The first two digits of the final four-digit sequence indicate the week of production, while the last two signify the year. Aging rubber can become brittle and lose structural integrity over time, prompting recommendations from Michelin for annual professional inspections once a tire passes its fifth year of service.
Timeline
January 29 to February 4, 2017: The period during which the tires were manufactured.
October 2026: The vehicle owner released a video documenting the tire age issue.
The Home Front
Vehicle safety and maintenance costs are increasingly scrutinized as used car buyers face risks ranging from odometer fraud to hidden wear items. This incident underscores the necessity of thorough pre-purchase inspections to avoid significant unforeseen ownership expenses.
If you are purchasing a used vehicle, check the four-digit Department of Transportation code on the sidewall to confirm the tire manufacturing date. If your tires are more than six years old, consult a licensed professional to inspect the rubber for signs of degradation before driving.
The takeaway
Always look for the four-digit DOT code on your tires to ensure they have not exceeded their safe service life. Scheduling a professional inspection for any vehicle purchased pre-owned can prevent surprise repair costs and ensure the safety of your family on the road.
Further reading
For guidance on keeping your vehicle roadworthy, visit our guide on Car Maintenance.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Motor1.
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Do you check the manufacture date of tires when buying a used car?
