What is the purpose of the blue and red lines on new tires?
2 Answers
New tires have blue and red lines to prove that the tire is indeed brand new and unused. Here is additional information: Tire lifespan: There are wear limit indicators in the tread of the tire. According to current regulations in China, when the tread depth of a passenger car tire is less than or equal to 1.6 mm, it means the tire has reached the end of its life. However, it is generally recommended to replace the tire when the tread depth is less than or equal to 2 mm, taking into account the tire's drainage performance. Purpose of the colors: The color indicates the width of the tread and the specifications of the tire. The lines are made of ordinary paint, which fuses with the rubber after being vulcanized in the vulcanization workshop. Every new tire has these lines. They serve as a mark to distinguish between new and old tires, as well as to identify retreaded tires.
The red and blue lines on new tires are actually quite interesting. From my driving experience, I know their main purpose is to help the installer align them correctly. The red line usually marks the lightest point on the tire, sometimes called the 'light point,' and should be aligned with the white or yellow dot on the wheel hub during installation. This reduces vibration when the tire rotates, making driving smoother. If not aligned properly, the steering wheel can shake noticeably at high speeds, affecting both comfort and tire lifespan. The blue line may indicate different points in some brands, but serves a similar purpose. I recommend reminding technicians to pay attention to these lines when fitting new tires and performing a dynamic balance test afterward to avoid future issues. Regularly checking tire balance during maintenance can save fuel and ensure safety. Neglecting these small details may lead to suspension wear or noise, so we car owners should stay vigilant to keep our vehicles running smoothly.
