User Guide

means the tire was produced during the 28th week of 2000; 0201 during the

2nd week of 2001. If the last digits of your DOT number contain three numeric

characters and are not marked with a triangle, consult a qualied tire professional

to determine the year of manufacture.

SERVICE LIFE FOR PASSENGER CAR AND LIGHT TRUCK

TIRES INCLUDING SPARE TIRES

Tires are composed of various types of material and rubber compounds having

performance properties essential to the proper functioning of the tire itself. These

component properties evolve over time. For each tire, this evolution depends

upon many factors such as weather, storage conditions, and conditions of use

(load, speed, ination pressure, maintenance etc.) to which the tire is subjected

throughout its life. This service-related evolution varies widely so that accurately

predicting the serviceable life of any specic tire in advance is not possible. That

is why, in addition to regular inspections and ination pressure maintenance by

consumers, it is recommended that passenger car and light truck tires, including

spare tires be inspected regularly by a qualied tire specialist, such as a Michelin

tire retailer, who will assess the tire’s suitability for continued service. Tires which

have been in use for 5 years or more should continue to be inspected by a

specialist at least annually. Consumers are strongly encouraged to be aware not

only of their tires’ visual condition and ination pressure but also of any change

in dynamic performance such as increased air loss, noise or vibration, which

could be an indication that the tires need to be removed from service to prevent

tire failure. It is impossible to predict when tires should be replaced based on

their calendar age alone. However, the older a tire, the greater the chance

that it will need to be replaced due to the service-related evolution or other

conditions found upon inspection or detected during use. While most tires will

need replacement before they achieve 10 years, it is recommended that any tires

in service 10 years or more from the date of manufacture, including spare tires,

be replaced with new tires as a precaution even if such tires appear serviceable

and even if they have not reached the legal wear limit. For tires that were on

an original equipment vehicle (i.e., acquired by the consumer on a new vehicle),

follow the vehicle manufacturer’s tire replacement recommendations, when

specied (but not to exceed 10 years). The date when a tire was manufactured

is located on the sidewall of each tire. Consumers should locate the Department

of Transportation or “DOT” code on the tire. The code begins with “DOT” and

ends with the week and year of manufacture. For example, a DOT code ending

with “2214” indicates a tire made in the 22nd week of 2014.