Not everyone is a car expert, but millions of people drive or ride in cars daily. There are small details, like red and yellow dots on tires, that many people don’t notice. However, these dots serve an important purpose.
The red and yellow dots on tires help with safety and balance. Since making a perfectly round tire is difficult, manufacturers use these dots to mark certain points of the tire. This helps technicians install and balance them properly.
What the Red Dot Means
Red dots indicate the lowest point of the tire. Typically, this mark is placed across from the highest point of the wheel. Rims also have variations, just like tires. Some wheels have their own marking that aligns with the red dot. This helps technicians know where to place counterweights for better balance.
Meanwhile, yellow dots indicate the lightest part of the tire. These are usually placed near the valve stem, as that area is the heaviest part of the wheel. If both red and yellow dots are on the tire, technicians usually follow the red dot to ensure proper balance.
Keeping Tires Balanced
Tire balance is essential for safe driving. However, many things can cause a tire to become unbalanced. For example, driving on underinflated or overinflated tires can affect balance, especially in cold weather. Over time, normal wear and tear can also impact tire stability.
Other factors, such as hitting a pothole or curb at high speeds, can make tires uneven. Even cars that sit for too long can have issues with tire shape. To prevent problems, check tire pressure regularly and have tires rotated every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. Some manufacturers recommend up to 10,000 miles, depending on the type of tire.
Other Tire Markings
Another marking to look for is a white dot. Unlike red and yellow dots, white dots are not as common and may have different meanings depending on the manufacturer. Not all tires have these markings, but they help technicians ensure proper balance and alignment.
Many people who only buy new vehicles or rarely replace tires may have never noticed these dots. However, they play a key role in keeping tires balanced and ensuring a smooth and safe driving experience.