What are the methods to distinguish the correct side of a tire?
2 Answers
Methods to distinguish the correct side of a tire include: 1. Check the production date, the side with the production date should face outward; 2. Look for the dot, the side with the dot should face outward; 3. Determine by the letters, the side with the letters should face outward; 4. For unidirectional tread tires, install them according to the direction of the arrow. The steps to replace a tire are: 1. Park the car, turn off the engine, and engage the handbrake to prevent sliding; 2. Loosen the screws in a diagonal pattern; 3. Lift the vehicle to a certain height; 4. Remove the screws and take off the tire; 5. Install the new tire and tighten the anti-theft screws in a diagonal pattern; 6. Lower the vehicle and tighten the screws and nuts.
Distinguishing tire direction is actually quite simple. I think the best method is to check the tire sidewall, which usually has markings like "OUTSIDE" or "INSIDE," clearly indicating which side should face outward. If the tire lacks these markings, observe the tread pattern: for directional tires, the V-shaped or arrow-like tread should point in the direction of rotation, with the pattern facing forward when installed. I often help friends change tires and also check wear patterns: if one side of a new tire is deeper than the other, placing the deeper side outward improves water drainage and grip. After installation, test it by driving a short distance to ensure minimal noise and stable handling. If installed incorrectly, uneven wear can occur, compromising safety. It's best to have a technician check during regular maintenance, as proper alignment can extend tire life by over 50,000 km. For tricky cases, always refer to the vehicle manual or consult a professional shop. When doing it yourself, wear gloves for hygiene and prioritize safety.
