Tires sold in the United States are required to include a serial number. In an effort to make the roads safer, tires manufactured for use and sale in the United States have a DOT number which includes the tire serial number.
The DOT number allows the United States Department of Transportation to monitor the quality of the parts used on vehicles. The number also helps drivers know when a part they used has been recalled.
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Does every tire have a serial number?
Yes. Every tire manufactured has a DOT (Department of Transportation) serial number. This number is usually located on the sidewall of your tire and contains various codes that identify where and when the tire was made.
It will also indicate what size tire it is, if its radial ply or bias ply, and contain other information that identifies its load rating, speed rating, etc.
How do I identify my tires?
If you need to replace one or more of your tires, you can use the DOT identification number to find the right ones. It is located on the sidewall of each tire and includes 10-12 characters. The last four digits represent the week and year when the tire was manufactured.
For example, if it says “DOT XXXXX XXXX XXXX 1403,” that means your tire was built in the 14th week of 2003 (late March). You can use this information to determine whether your tires are too old for safe use.
Do Michelin tires have serial numbers?
Michelin branded tires manufactured on or after July 1, 2000, will have a 12-digit identification number imprinted on one sidewall of the tire.
This number can be used to identify the tire and determine if a recall has been issued. If your Michelin tires do not have this number, they were manufactured prior to July 1, 2000.
Do wheels have serial numbers?
The serial number is the set of numbers that appear on the rim of the wheel and are stamped into the metal when they are manufactured. These numbers are unique and are used to identify each wheel as it comes off the assembly line at the factory.
Where do I find the serial number on a tire?
Look for the DOT code, which is short for the Department of Transportation code. The DOT code is a series of numbers and letters that tell you where and when your tire was manufactured, as well as other information about its features.
What are the numbers on a tire called?
The numbers and letters found on the side of your tires are a series of codes that are used to communicate specific information about the tire. The numbers and letters tell you a wealth of information, including:
- When the tire was made.
- The manufacturer of the tire.
- The tire’s construction type.
- The size of the tire.
- The load rating of the tire (how much weight it can support).
- The speed rating of the tire (the maximum speed it can safely handle).
Tire code markings identify how much pressure each individual tire can support, and for how long.
How can I tell what kind of tire I have?
In addition to making sure your tires are properly inflated and in good condition, you need to know what type of tire is appropriate for your vehicle and driving conditions. Look for the letters “P” or “LT” at the beginning of the tires size. The letter P means it is a passenger car tire and LT means it is a light truck tire.
What does the code on a tire mean?
The code begins with the letters DOT, which indicates that the tire meets U.S. Department of Transportation requirements. The next two numbers or letters are the plant code where the tire was manufactured.
This is followed by four numbers that indicate the week and year of production. The last four numbers are a service description representing load index and speed rating. Example: P205/55HR16 91H.
Conclusion
The DOT number allows the United States Department of Transportation to monitor the quality of the parts used on vehicles. The number also helps drivers know when a part they use has been recalled.
The information on a tire’s sidewall is essential for drivers to understand how their tires work and how to drive safely.
