How TireOrNOT Works

Camera Scan (AI Vision)

Point your camera at the tire sidewall. The flashlight activates automatically because tire sidewalls are black text on black rubber, often in dark wheel wells. AI reads the DOT code, tire size, brand, model, speed rating, load index, and treadwear rating.

Text Search

Type a DOT code (e.g., "DOT CCVL YFE 2319") or tire size (e.g., "225/65R17") directly. TireOrNOT decodes the information and checks safety databases.

Safety Check (Deep Check)

Safety Check uses AI-powered web search to analyze your tire:

• Calculates exact tire age from DOT code and compares to NHTSA 6-year recommendation
• Searches NHTSA tire recall database for your specific brand/model
• Looks up known complaints and defects for this tire
• Decodes full tire specifications (size, speed rating, load capacity)
• Compares treadwear rating to category averages

Understanding the DOT Code

Every tire has a DOT code on the sidewall. The last 4 digits are the date code: first two digits = week of manufacture, last two = year. Example: 2319 = week 23 of 2019.

Important Limitations

TireOrNOT is a visual assessment tool, NOT a substitute for professional tire inspection. AI can read the DOT code and visible markings accurately, but it cannot measure tread depth in 32nds of an inch, detect internal belt separation, or identify damage hidden inside the tire. The penny test and a qualified technician are still the gold standard.

Your Privacy

TireOrNOT uses BYOK architecture. Your photos and data go directly from your browser to Groq AI. There is no TireOrNOT server.

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