Complete List of Tire DOT Plant Codes

Upon inspecting a tire, you will notice a distinct DOT number etched into its surface. This sequence of characters is more than just a mark; it’s a gateway to understanding the specifics of the tire that plays a crucial role in your safety. Yet, the meaning behind the DOT number can be puzzling for many vehicle owners. Local car service experts are at hand to demystify the tire DOT number for you.

DOT Tire Code
The sequence on every tire begins with the acronym DOT, standing for the Department of Transportation. This label ensures that the tires adhere to the safety standards set by the Department of Transportation and marks the commencement of the tire’s unique identification number (TIN).

Understanding the Tire Plant Code
Following the initial DOT are two symbols that signify the manufacturing plant code. Each tire factory is assigned a distinct code, typically a combination of a letter and a number. The significance of this code is paramount; in the event of a recall or a safety concern, the specific factory responsible for producing the tire can be easily identified.

Here is a complete street of global tire manufactures DOT Code

Deciphering the Tire Size Code
The tire size code, which follows the plant code, comprises a pair of digits or letters that used to correspond to a standardized list maintained by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). However, manufacturers now assign their own codes for tire sizes as per the US Federal Register. Although this allows manufacturers more freedom, it complicates the interpretation of tire size from the DOT number. Fortunately, there are simpler methods to determine your tire’s size.

Manufacturer-Specific Characteristics
The next segment of the DOT number is reserved for the tire manufacturer to indicate distinctive features or significant characteristics related to the brand, as described by the US Federal Register. While not mandatory unless specified by a brand owner, manufacturers can use this section to code information useful for recalls or identification.

The Importance of Tire Age
Tires can deteriorate over time, even without use. After five years, tires start to undergo thermo-oxidative degradation, which can affect their performance on the road. The last four digits of the DOT number reveal the tire’s production date.

Locating Tire Size, Pressure, and More
While DOT numbers offer valuable information, they might not cover all the details about your tires. Tire specialists frequently encounter questions such as the correct tire size, recommended pressure, or even specific cold pressure guidelines. It’s a common misconception that the DOT number will provide such details. Instead, tire manufacturers typically include this information on the sidewall of the tire or on a label inside the driver’s-side door frame. Your vehicle’s owner’s manual is also a reliable resource for this information.