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What Are Directional Tyres, and How Can I Identify Them?
This type of tyre is so named because of the direction that its tread pattern is laid out. It has been designed and developed to run optimally with the tread pattern following this singular 'direction'.
Directional tyres often feature a distinctive tread pattern. This is a distinct v-shaped pattern across the width of the tread. This has been designed for optimal performance in a single direction.
To spot directional tyres, either look at the tread pattern or simply look for the ‘directional’ tyre arrow that can be found on the tyre’s sidewall.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Directional Tyres?
Advantages:
Directional tyres deliver a strong level of traction, handling, and performance. This is true for both wet and dry roads. They have been developed to provide you with precise cornering and superior road grip. Directional tyres are tested for snowy conditions, making them a solid option for smaller vehicles and sports cars in regions with mild winters.
Disadvantages:
Proper fitting of the tyres is crucial. The arrow indicating the direction of travel must be adhered to. If this not done, this can lead to poor performance and uneven tread wear. As well as this, unlike other tyres that can be rotated for longer lifespan, directional tyres can only be moved from front to back.
Fitting directional tyres backward is dangerous. It significantly reduces traction, especially in wet conditions, potentially compromising safety and voiding warranties.
Can Directional Tyres Be Fitted Backwards?
Fitting a directional tyre backward is a significant mistake. One that can compromise your safety and vehicle's performance.
On top of this, it can affect your eligibility for the manufacturer's warranty.
There is evidence suggesting that fitting directional tyres backward can lead to substantial traction issues. More so on wet roads.
What Should I Do If My Directional Tyres Are Installed Incorrectly?
If you've purchased a car recently and you believe that the directional tyres have been fitted incorrectly, have this fixed as soon as you can.
Running directional tyres backward poses unnecessary risks.