How to Tell If Your Tires Are Directional

Were you aware that some vehicle tires are directional? This means they must be installed on your car in a particular way for optimal performance. It also means you’ll need to make sure they are pointing in the right direction for rotation during the initial installation.

However, this sounds a lot more complicated than it really is. Here are some simple ways you can discover how to tell if wheels are directional like a pro.

Read the Sidewall

One of the simplest ways to determine if vehicle tires are directional or unidirectional is by reading their sidewalls.

Manufacturers typically print the words “rotation” or “direction” here.

There may also be an arrow printed on directional wheels indicating the forward rotation, which is known as a directional tire symbol or directional tire arrow.

Other tires may simply show the words Inside or Outside to indicate mounting direction.

Any of these items visible on your tire sidewalls indicate that you have directional tires on your hands.

Look at the Tread Pattern

If you can’t find the word rotation or a symbol indicating your tires are directional, there are other ways to tell if they are.

Directional tires will have a distinct V-shaped or chevron tread patterns and may have large, solid center tread blocks that help them shed water and grip the road effectively under varying road conditions (think: rain or snow).  In addition, the tread shape should “point” in the forward rotational direction.

Read the Tire Specs

So you’re out buying vehicle tires and want to see if they’re directional, now what? If this situation arises, find and read the sticker on the product. Many times the label will have the tire specs and may indicate rotation and other elements.

Visit a Tire Shop

There are several ways to determine if vehicle tires are directional. But if you aren’t interested in determining the rotation direction and would prefer to leave that up to the professionals, you can contact your local tire shop to make an appointment, or you may even stop by without calling if a place isn’t very busy.

The right tire shop will help you install new directional tires or rotate your existing ones to extend their life and ensure they shed water properly to help prevent your vehicle from hydroplaning.

As a side note: never use cruise control when driving in wet or slippery conditions. This can result in hydroplaning, which is extremely dangerous.

If your car, truck, or SUV doesn’t seem to be gripping the road as well as it once did, maybe it’s time for some new tires.

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Of course, there are different wheels worthy of your consideration, but those of the directional variety may be the way to go for your vehicle. If you’re ready to purchase high-quality tires and get them installed on your vehicle, don’t delay any longer. Instead, contact the service department at Nucar CDJR of Tilton in Tilton, NH,  today. Our skilled and friendly staff is always available to help you.