How to Distinguish the Inside and Outside of Car Tires?
2 Answers
By looking at the INSIDE, OUTSIDE markings and the production date on the tire, you can distinguish the inside and outside of the tire. Markings and Production Date: INSIDE indicates the inner side; OUTSIDE indicates the outer side. The production date is on the outer side. Explanation of Tire Specifications: Taking P205/55R16 as an example, "P" stands for passenger car tire. "205" refers to the section width of the tire, which is the distance between the two sidewalls (in millimeters). "55" is the aspect ratio of the tire, indicating that the height is 65% of the width—the smaller the number, the flatter the tire appears. "R" refers to the tire's construction, meaning it is a radial tire. "16" denotes the rim diameter (in inches), meaning this tire must fit a 16-inch rim; otherwise, it cannot be installed.
I usually pay close attention to tire maintenance when driving, and distinguishing between the inner and outer sides is actually not difficult. The tire sidewall is often marked with 'OUTSIDE' or '内侧' (inside). If there's no marking, look for the rotation arrow—it should point in the direction of the vehicle's movement. For asymmetric tread patterns, the outer side has deeper grooves for better water drainage. During installation, the inner side should face the wheel hub, and the outer side should face outward. If installed incorrectly, the car may feel unstable, especially in rainy conditions with reduced grip, making it prone to skidding and causing uneven wear. I recommend that beginners double-check the markings before attempting installation or get someone to assist to avoid redoing the work and ensure driving safety.
