How to Check Tyre Year in UAE & What To Do Next
In the UAE, where temperatures soar and road safety standards are high, knowing your tyre manufacturing date isn’t just smart; it’s essential. Tyres age with time, regardless of mileage, and expired rubber can lead to blowouts or poor grip, especially on sun-scorched roads.
This guide by Al-Futtaim Automall explains how to check tyre year, what the DOT code means, and how to follow UAE laws. Whether your tyres are getting old or you’re buying a new set, this is the tyre care checklist every UAE driver should follow.
Why Car Tyre Age Matters in the UAE
In the UAE’s hot climate, tyre age matters more than you might think. Heat accelerates the breakdown of rubber compounds, weakening tyre structure over time.
An old tyre might look fine at first glance, but it may already be unsafe due to UV light oxidising the rubber from the inside out. Even if the tread depth meets standards, the tyre can still fail suddenly.
Legally, the age limit is five years in the UAE. Any car tyre older than that is considered expired and must be replaced to meet safety standards.
Where to Find the Tyre Manufacturing Date and Year
Your tyre’s manufacturing date is embedded in the sidewall, specifically in the DOT code, a string of characters issued by the tyre manufacturer. Look closely at the outer side of your tyre near the rim; the serial number usually ends with four digits inside an oval or bordered section.
You’ll often see this on all tyres, including spare wheels. Depending on your vehicle's model and brand, the date may be on the inside-facing side, so check both sides if needed.
How to Read the DOT Code on Tyres
The key to unlocking your tyre’s age lies in its DOT number, which is short for Department of Transportation. This code ends in a four-digit code that represents the week and year the tyre was made.
- The first two numbers indicate the week of manufacture (01 to 52).
- The last two digits represent the year (e.g., 21 = 2021).
For example, a DOT code ending in 3219 means the tyre was manufactured in the 32nd week of 2019.
If your tyre shows three digits, it was made before 2000 and is far beyond its usable age; it's time to replace it immediately.
Tyre Expiry Rules and Regulations in the UAE
The UAE’s transport authority enforces clear tyre laws:
- Tyres must not be more than 5 years old from the manufacturing date
- New tyres sold in stores must not be older than 6 months.
- Expired or old tyres will fail registration checks or may incur fines.
Driving with expired tyres is risky and illegal, especially under the UAE’s strict safety standards.
Signs Your Tyres May Be Ageing or Unsafe
Ageing tyres don’t always show visible signs, but here’s what to look for:
- Small cracks on the tyre sidewall
- Visible bulges or soft spots
- Uneven tyre wear or worn tread
- Frequent tyre pressure loss
- A dry or brittle surface on the rubber
Even if the tyre’s width, aspect ratio, and rim diameter match the original spec, the tyres might still be dangerous if they’re years old.
What to Do If Your Tyres Are Nearing or Past Expiry
If your tyre expiry date is close or past, don’t delay. Replace the tyres promptly. Driving on expired rubber risks your safety and can lead to accidents or tyre bursts.
Be sure to check all four tyres and your spare wheel. Often, the spare is forgotten, but it ages just the same. If any tyre is nearly five years old — even with good tread — it’s time to replace it.
Tips for Buying New Tyres in the UAE
When purchasing a new tyre, always:
- Inspect the DOT code before installation
- Ask for tyres with the most recent manufacturing date
- Avoid old stock, especially tyres stored in hot conditions
- Choose trusted brands like Michelin, Bridgestone, or Pirelli
- Verify the tyre matches your original equipment specs
Also, check the tyre size, load index, and speed rating to match your vehicle requirements.
If you’re considering a pre-owned vehicle, make sure you also review things to check before buying a used car, including tyre age and condition.
Importance of Regular Tyre Inspections
Scheduling regular tyre inspections helps catch premature ageing, wear, or low tyre pressure before it becomes a problem.
- Inspect tyres monthly or before long road trips
- Look for visible damage or uneven wear
- Check tyre tread depth and sidewall integrity
- Visit professionals for thorough assessments
It’s not just about the tyre year; issues like faulty alignment or overloading can shorten tyre lifespan even on newer models.
Responsible Disposal and Recycling of Old Tyres
Tyres are non-biodegradable and can harm the environment if disposed of improperly. Always:
- Take old tyres to an authorised recycling centre
- Avoid leaving them in open spaces or random garages
- Follow your emirate’s recycling or collection policies
This ensures safe processing and avoids penalties or environmental impact.
Final Thoughts: Stay Safe, Stay Compliant
Understanding how to check tyre year and acting on it is a must in the UAE. With extreme weather, tight road rules, and high-speed highways, your tyres should always meet performance and safety standards.
Whether you’re driving a compact sedan or a luxury SUV, keeping your tyres checked means fewer breakdowns and more peace of mind.
If your tyres are nearing expiry or you’re not sure how to inspect them, visit Al-Futtaim Automall for expert advice and certified tyre replacements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I check my tyre expiry date?
Check the DOT code on your tyre’s sidewall. The last four digits show the week and year of manufacture. If the tyre is more than five years old, it is considered expired in the UAE.
Can I use 10-year-old tyres?
No. Tyres that are ten years old are unsafe and illegal on UAE roads. Even with full tread, the rubber deteriorates over time, risking failure and loss of control.
Why is it important to check the tyre's age?
In the UAE’s heat, tyre rubber breaks down over time, even if tread looks fine. Checking tyre age helps prevent blowouts, ensures safety, and keeps you compliant with local laws.