Drivers Are Confused By The Red Dot On Tires

Tires are the only component of the car that is in constant contact with the asphalt. That is why it is important to periodically pay attention to their condition, not only the pressure but also the wear of the tread or if it shows any irregularity or deformation in the contact area as well as on the sides.

On each tire you can find measurements, load and speed indexes, production date, brand, and model… All this data is recorded on the side of the tire, so you can read it despite its wear.

However, there is another element that is very likely to be deleted due to discoloration, wear, or dirt. It is about the red dot present on the side of the tire, the mark of the ‘maximum point of radial force variation.’ This red dot (can also be a triangle) has a function in the correct mounting of the wheels, facilitating balancing by marking the maximum point of radial force variation. In other words, it is used to indicate the place where the tire is the hardest and is crucial for balancing.

If not properly balanced, vibrations can be created in the wheels, which affect driving comfort and cause abnormal and premature wear of the tire tread. In addition, it can affect the behavior of the vehicle, which interferes with its handling and is a serious safety risk.

Apart from this red dot, it is possible to find other types of markings on the sides of the tire, such as a yellow dot/triangle or small white circles that indicate where the tire is lightest, which are also used for wheel balancing if a professional balancing machine is not available.

That is why it is advisable to keep the side of the tire clean if it has a red dot when you go to balance the wheels, although in all specialist shops, there are balancing machines that allow the mechanic to achieve the perfect balance without needing that mark as a reference.

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