Which side of the spare tire faces outward?

[DiJessica]

Usually, tires with an inside and outside have an OUTSIDE mark (external mark) on the same side as the production date, so the tire production date is generally installed facing outward. If it is a symmetrical tread tire, there is no distinction between inside and outside during installation, but it is best to place the side with the production date on the outside. If it is a unidirectional tread tire, it should be installed in the direction of the arrow, which indicates the rolling direction of the wheel. Here is some additional information: 1. Tires: Tires are one of the most important components of a car. Their main functions include: supporting the entire weight of the vehicle and bearing the load of the car; transmitting traction and braking torque to ensure the adhesion between the wheels and the road; reducing and absorbing vibrations and impacts during driving to prevent severe vibrations and early damage to car components; adapting to the high-speed performance of the vehicle and reducing driving noise; ensuring driving safety, handling stability, comfort, and energy efficiency. 2. Specifications: Tire specifications are often represented by a set of numbers. The first number indicates the tire section width, and the second number indicates the rim diameter, both in inches. The letter or symbol in the middle has a special meaning: tire structure: "R" stands for radial tire, while "D" or "-" stands for bias tire.

[Alan]

I've been driving for over twenty years and changed quite a few spare tires. Generally, the small spare wheel should be installed with the side of the rim that has protrusions or grooves facing outward. This helps prevent dust from getting in and makes it easier to secure the hubcap. Spare tires are usually for temporary use—don't count on them for long-distance driving. When changing, choose an open area, engage the handbrake, turn on the engine compartment light, use the car's jack to lift the body, remove the flat tire first, then install the spare. Align the bolts and tighten them securely. Remember to check the spare tire's pressure—if it's too low, the car will wobble and there's a risk of a blowout. Keep speeds below 80 km/h and head to a repair shop to replace it with the original tire as soon as possible. Always keep a tire pressure gauge in the car for easy checks.

[DelIsabela]

As someone who frequently drives long distances, I usually install the spare tire with the patterned or raised side of the wheel rim facing outward. Like last time when I had a flat tire on the highway at night, I mounted the spare with the smooth side of the rim inward and the rough side outward, which made driving more stable afterward. Safety details during tire changes cannot be overlooked. Always park on a flat shoulder, turn on hazard lights, place a triangular warning sign 50 meters away from the vehicle, then use the onboard tools to remove the nuts—loosening them diagonally to prevent body sway. After installing the new spare, tighten each bolt in stages to the appropriate torque, then drive a short distance and recheck the tightness. Spare tires generally last only a few years, so regularly inspect them for cracks or aging, and avoid overloading or speeding when using them.

[McDaniel]

I've changed tires multiple times. Generally, the spare tire should be mounted with the side that has the decorative ring or raised center hole facing outward, as this helps prevent loosening after installation. The steps are: park the vehicle securely, engage the parking brake, position the jack at the designated chassis support point to lift the car, remove the old tire and install the spare, ensure the wheel hub aligns with the hub holes, and tighten the bolts evenly with balanced force. Safety reminder: spare tires are for temporary use only—avoid prolonged driving on highways or mountain roads. Maintain the specified tire pressure (usually indicated on the door frame) and check the spare tire monthly to prevent emergencies. After changing, drive slowly to a repair shop immediately.