What Part of the Code on My Tires is the Date Code? Should I Replace My Tires?

Updated 08/12/2026 | Published 08/08/2026

Question:

Looking to take a 3000 mile trip and was wondering if the current condition of my trailer tires are worthy. The date on the side of the tire reads DOT 1AD B4TRT1 1220 Assuming the tire is from 2020 correct? No visible cracking and has been sitting for a couple years with very little load on them.

asked by: Sonny P

Expert Reply:

Hello Sonny,

Welcome to etrailer, I'm glad you found us!

As much as I would love to tell you your tires are totally fine to go on that 3,000 mile trip, I would replace them before you head out. You are correct on the date code. The last four digits, 1220, mean your tires were manufactured during the 12th week of 2020, so they're a little over 6 years old at this point.

The fact that you're not seeing any visible cracking and that the tires have been sitting with very little load on them is certainly good, but unfortunately that doesn't tell us everything about their condition. Trailer tires can deteriorate with age even when they aren't being used much, and you can't always see that deterioration from the outside.

With a 3,000 mile trip ahead of you, I personally wouldn't take the chance on tires that are already over 6 years old. I would much rather see you start the trip with a fresh set of tires than have to deal with a tire failure on the side of the highway somewhere along the way.

If you send me the tire size and load range listed on the sidewall, along with your trailer's GVWR if you have it, I'll be happy to help you find the right replacements. I attached an image of what numbers I need.

Where are you headed on your 3,000 mile adventure?

expert reply by: Kate F