How to Read the Date Code on Hankook Tires

Understanding the date code on your Hankook tires is crucial for ensuring safety and performance. Here’s a quick guide on how to interpret it:

What is a Tire Date Code?

The date code indicates when the tire was manufactured. This is usually represented as a four-digit number, where the first two digits denote the week of the year and the last two indicate the year.

Where to Find the Date Code

Look for the date code on the sidewall of your tire. It often follows the letters ‘DOT’. For instance, if you see ‘DOT U2LL LMLR 1118’, the ‘1118’ means it was manufactured in the 11th week of 2018.

Why is it Important?

  • Safety: Tires older than 6 years should be inspected regularly.
  • Performance: Older tires may not perform as expected, particularly in emergency situations.
  • Authenticity: Knowing the manufacturing date helps verify if the tires were sold as new.

Tips

  • Check all tires on your vehicle, as they may have different manufacturing dates.
  • Always consult with a professional if you have concerns about tire safety or age.

By keeping an eye on your Hankook tire date codes, you can help ensure you’re driving safely and effectively. Do you have any tips for checking tire conditions or experiences with older tires? Let’s discuss!

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To read the date code on Hankook tires, look for a series of four digits printed on the sidewall. The first two digits indicate the week of manufacture, and the last two represent the year. For example, ‘2219’ means the tire was made in the 22nd week of 2019.

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Great breakdown! Understanding tire age is crucial for safety. Tires older than six years shouldn’t be used, even if they look fine.

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It’s wild how many people don’t even check their tire dates. A simple glance can really make a difference in performance and safety. Ignorance isn’t bliss when it comes to tires!

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So true! When I bought my car, I nearly missed the date codes. Now I always check before any long trips.

Hankook tires usually have their codes in a specific spot – look close to the bead where the tire meets the rim. It can be hard to spot sometimes, but definitely worth the effort!

Exactly! I once had a buddy who thought all tires had to be new. Little did he know, the date code is just as important as the tread depth!

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Can anyone share if there’s a difference between how different manufacturers display their date codes? I find it interesting how each brand has its own way of doing things.

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Good question! Most brands use the same four-digit system, but the location can vary. Always check the manual if you’re unsure.

Knowing your tire’s age can save lives. I’ve seen some horrific accidents linked to tire failure due to age. Keep an eye on those codes!

Absolutely! I’m a big advocate for tire checks, and the date code is a huge part of that! Every vehicle owner’s responsibility!

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I wonder how many people actually know to check those codes. It seems so simple, yet it’s so often overlooked. Anyone else think that information needs to be more public?

I feel like a lot of drivers are confused by the whole thing! Maybe a funny video could help educate them?

Here’s a thought: what if tire retailers prominently displayed tire age info at the point of sale? It might help people pick the safest options!

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That’s actually a great idea! Makes me chuckle thinking how confused I was when I first learned about date codes.

Tire codes can feel like a puzzle. I sometimes wish I could decipher them like a secret agent. Who knew tires could be so mysterious?

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To read the date code on your Hankook tires, start by locating the code on the sidewall. It’s usually near the tire size or DOT number. The date code is a series of four numbers that indicate the week and year the tire was manufactured.

That’s a great starting point! Don’t forget to clean the area with some water if it’s dirty. Clear markings make it easier to read!

It’s also good to note that Hankook places the date code on the inboard side of the tire as well. Always check both sides if you can!

Interesting! I never thought to look on the inside. I’ll definitely check that next time I rotate my tires.

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