Instant tyre check

Are your tyres safe?

Check your tyre age from the DOT code, or decode your tyre size — and find replacements at the best price.

Please enter the last 4 digits of your DOT code (e.g. 2319)
Found on the tyre sidewall after the letters "DOT" — use only the final 4 digits
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Also worth checking
Tyre Tread Depth Gauges on Amazon → Tyre Pressure Gauges on Amazon →
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Width (mm)
Profile (%)
Rim (inch)
Please enter all three parts of your tyre size
What your tyre size means
Tyre width
Sidewall height
Rim diameter
Overall tyre diameter
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Coming soon — Android & iOS

Scan your tyre wall with your phone

The TyreScan app reads your DOT code and tyre size automatically using your camera. No typing — just point and scan.

How to find your DOT code

Every tyre sold in the UK has a DOT code moulded into the sidewall. Look for the letters DOT followed by a series of letters and numbers. The last four digits are the ones you need — they tell you exactly when the tyre was made.

DOT U2LL LMLR 2319
DOT — compliance mark U2LL — factory code LMLR — tyre code 23 — week 23 19 — year 2019

The DOT code above shows a tyre made in the 23rd week of 2019. Only the last four digits matter for age checking — ignore everything before them.

How to read your tyre size

Your tyre size is printed on the sidewall in a standard format used worldwide. Here's what each number means:

205/55 R16
205 — WidthThe tyre is 205mm wide
55 — Aspect ratioSidewall is 55% of width
16 — Rim diameterFits a 16 inch wheel

How old is too old for tyres?

Tyre rubber degrades over time even if the tread looks fine. Heat, UV light, and oxidation cause the rubber to harden and crack from the inside — which you can't see from the surface.

Most tyre manufacturers and the RAC recommend:

Under 5 years — Safe

Your tyres are within their expected lifespan. Continue with regular tread depth checks and visual inspections for cracking or bulges.

5 to 7 years — Monitor closely

Tyres in this range should be inspected by a qualified tyre fitter annually. Look out for sidewall cracking, which is a sign of rubber degradation. Consider replacing sooner if the vehicle is used heavily.

Over 7 years — Replace

Most manufacturers recommend replacing tyres at this age regardless of tread depth. The structural integrity of the tyre may be compromised, increasing the risk of a blowout especially at motorway speeds.

Note: Some manufacturers set their limit at 6 years, others at 10. When in doubt, ask a tyre fitter to inspect them.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use my tyre if the tread is fine but it's over 7 years old?
Legally yes — UK law only specifies minimum tread depth (1.6mm). But most tyre manufacturers and motoring organisations recommend replacement after 7 years regardless of tread. Old rubber loses elasticity and can fail without warning, especially at speed.
What if my DOT code only has 3 digits at the end?
Three-digit DOT codes were used on tyres made before 2000. If your tyre has a 3-digit code, it is over 25 years old and should be replaced immediately.
Do spare tyres age the same way?
Yes. A spare tyre that has never been used still ages from the moment it was made. Always check the DOT code on your spare — many are dangerously old without the owner realising.
Where exactly is the DOT code on the tyre?
Look on the inner or outer sidewall of the tyre for the letters DOT followed by a sequence of letters and numbers. It may be on one side only. You may need to crouch down and look carefully — it can be small and hard to read, especially on darker or older tyres.
Are tyre size codes universal?
Yes — the width/profile/rim format (e.g. 205/55 R16) is an international standard used worldwide. You'll see the same format on tyres from every manufacturer in every country.
How often should I check my tyres?
Check tread depth and tyre pressure monthly. Do a visual check for cracking, bulges, or foreign objects every time you wash the car. A full inspection including age check once a year.