Vauxhall astra mk3 - when did tyre date stamps become compulsory - sy47791

My father's Astra which he bought last year has 2 budget rear tyres. The tread is good but they don't exactly look new and there's no sign of any date stamps on them, either 3 or 4 digit. Does this mean they were made before date stamps were introduced and if so, how old does it make them?

Vauxhall astra mk3 - when did tyre date stamps become compulsory - bathtub tom

This website would suggest they've been around since 1986 at least: www.carbibles.com/tyre_bible.html

It also says they may only be on one sidewall. Have you looked at the inside wall?

Vauxhall astra mk3 - when did tyre date stamps become compulsory - sy47791

OK, thanks - I decided to change them anyway to avoid the risk