What do the red and yellow dots on new car tires mean?
2 Answers
New car tires have red and yellow dots that mark the heaviest and lightest positions on the tire. The yellow dot represents the lightest position, while the red dot indicates the heaviest position. During the manufacturing process of tires, it is impossible for every part to have exactly the same weight, just as it is impossible for every part of the wheel rim to be perfectly balanced in weight. Tires are the only components of a car that come into contact with the ground, and they are crucial for the vehicle's driving stability and safety. Being rubber products, tires are prone to aging over time, so it is recommended that car owners replace them regularly. Generally, tires can be used for about four years before needing replacement.
I used to be curious about the red and yellow dots on new tires too, until I started working at an auto repair shop and learned their real purpose. The yellow dot actually marks the lightest point of the tire, while the red dot indicates the high point for dynamic balance. When mounting tires, you need to align the yellow dot with the valve stem position because the valve stem area is typically heavier, creating a complementary balance. As for the red dot, it should be aligned with the white dot marking on the wheel rim's lightest point. I remember two years ago when helping a customer install new tires, I overlooked this detail and the steering wheel started shaking violently at 50 mph. Actually, these markings are particularly prominent on premium brand tires like Michelin and Bridgestone, while smaller manufacturers often neglect them. Proper alignment ensures more even tire wear, extends service life, and provides better stability at high speeds. We always carefully check this detail during routine maintenance, since improper dynamic balance can affect the entire suspension system.
