TIRE CARE & MAINTENANCE

Proper Mounting of Directional and Asymmetrical Tires

If you believe your tires have been mounted incorrectly (with either the directional arrow pointing the wrong way, or the inside mounted to outside), we recommend having them remounted by a professional. This condition should not lead to premature tire wear; however, your tires may not perform their intended functions as well as originally designed.

To help maximize the life and performance of your directional and asymmetrical tires, it’s important to understand what kind of tires you have, as well as the proper positioning for your tires.

IMPORTANT: You should never try to mount your own tires.

Tire mounting is a job that requires the proper equipment and expertise. If you try to do it yourself, you run the risk of serious injury to yourself, as well as possible damage to the tire and rim.

Tires should always be replaced with the same size designation --or approved options --as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer or Goodyear retailer.

What are Directional Tires?

Tires with a "directional" tread contain specific design elements that function best when rolling in one direction. For example, some Goodyear tires incorporate unidirectional sweeping traction grooves to enhance performance and traction. By channeling water and slush efficiently away from the tire in wet and winter conditions, these tires provide excellent hydroplaning resistance and confident control in challenging weather conditions.

How to Tell if Tires are Directional

Directional tires are generally designed with lateral grooves on the tread pattern that form a V-shape.

When you look at directional tires head on, these channels all point forward and down.

Learn more about the Goodyear Ultra Grip® Ice WRT winter tire featuring directional tread channels.

Proper Mounting of Directional Tires

If your directional tires are mounted to roll opposite their intended direction, you may not be experiencing their full benefit. For example, they may not work as efficiently as originally designed. It’s best to have them remounted to roll in the proper direction. Simply have your tire(s) dismounted and reinstalled correctly. For assistance, find a store near you.

What are Asymmetrical Tires?

Asymmetrical tires are designed to enhance traction, handling, and cornering capabilities while reducing noise. These tires are often found on sport performance vehicles. The tires can rotate in either direction when mounted with the correct side facing out, as indicated on the tire sidewall.

Proper Mounting of Asymmetrical Tires

These tires feature certain road-holding characteristics and wet traction technology in very specific areas of the tire, such as in the outer tread block. When mounted incorrectly on the inside of the tire, this tread—designed to be on the outside of the tire—proves less effective at performing its intended function. Simply have your tire(s) dismounted and reinstalled correctly. For assistance, find a store near you.

Buy Directional or Asymmetrical Tires for Your Vehicle

Goodyear.com will help you find the right tire for you. We’ll show you all Goodyear, Kelly and Dunlop tires that fit your vehicle. You can also search our network of trusted retailers to find a store near you.

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TIRE CARE & MAINTENANCE