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Q: How do I know the difference in tire patterns – asymmetric, directional and symmetric? – Mr. Johnson

A: Mr. Johnson,

Asymmetric – Tire will have “outside” printed on one side of the tire and “inside” printed on the other side of the tire. A properly mounted tire will show the “outside” side when it has been mounted on the vehicle. An asymmetric tire will have differences in tread pattern design between the inside and outside of the tire tread area, which necessitates proper mounting.

Directional – A directional tire will have an arrow and the word “rotation” indicating the direction the arrow should roll when the vehicle is moving forward. If the arrow does not roll forward when the vehicle is moving forward, the tire has been mounted improperly. Most directional tires appear to have a “V” design to the tread.

Symmetric – This is a standard tire and will not have any of the above printed on the side wall. 

Visit Tire Pros of Frederick for more helpful auto repair tips.