How to Identify the Front and Back Sides of Car Tires?
2 Answers
Tire side identification methods are as follows: 1. For most tires, the side with the production date should face outward. 2. Check if there are two dots on the tire sidewall. Typically, one dot is red and the other is yellow. The red dot is solid, while the yellow one is hollow. The side with these dots should face outward. 3. Lettering identification. This method isn't universal as it varies by brand. For example, Dunlop tires have the word "outside" on the outward-facing sidewall. Other brands may not have these markings - some tires may have "INSIDE" on the inner side instead. 4. Symmetrical tread pattern tires and unidirectional tread tires don't have front/back sides. Although unidirectional tires don't have front/back sides, they do have a specific rolling direction. These tires feature an arrow on the sidewall indicating the correct rotation direction. Installing them backwards will reduce traction and drainage performance, creating safety hazards.
Having driven for many years, I've accumulated quite a bit of experience. Identifying the correct side of a tire is actually quite simple. The sidewall of the tire usually has clear markings, such as the word "OUTSIDE," which indicates the outer side and should face outward toward the exterior of the vehicle when installed. Conversely, "INSIDE" means the inner side and should face inward. Some tires also have small arrows indicating the rotation direction, which specifies the correct direction of rotation during driving and must be aligned to avoid issues. Once, when I changed a tire myself, I was lazy and didn't check these markings, and as a result, the noise while driving increased significantly, the tire wore unevenly, and the left front tire wore out half a year earlier than the right front one. Especially on rainy roads, I noticed reduced grip and a tendency to skid. Now, every time I wash my car or during maintenance, I make sure to wipe the dust off the sidewalls and carefully check these markings to confirm the tire isn't installed backward. I also check the tire pressure to ensure it's normal. After making this a habit, I've encountered fewer problems, and my car has become more durable and reliable.
