The tread of a tire is something that the most individuals take for granted. They may have a broad knowledge that tread patterns and depths vary, but they may not fully comprehend the function of tire tread. Understanding the significance of tire tread and the various tread patterns will assist drivers in driving safely and comfortably.

Let's examine tire tread patterns you may come across when shopping for new tires.

Symmetric Tread Patterns

A symmetric tread design is the most frequent. It consists of independent tread blocks throughout the whole tread face, with the same pattern on both the inboard and outboard portions. Tires with symmetric tread patterns permit the use of numerous tire rotation patterns.

Asymmetric Tread Patterns

Asymmetric tread pattern is meant to balance the requirements of dry grip and water dispersion/snow traction by varying throughout the tire's tread face. Asymmetric tread patterns often have bigger tread ribs/blocks on the outboard side to boost cornering stability on dry roads by increasing the contact area. This also reduces tread wiggle and heat accumulation on the outer shoulder. When driving straight ahead, the inboard side of a tire often has smaller, independent tread blocks to improve wet and/or winter grip. Asymmetric tread patterns on tires permit the use of different tire rotation patterns.

Unidirectional Directional (Directional) Tread Patterns

A directional tread pattern is intended to roll in just one direction. It has v-shaped tread blocks created by lateral grooves on the two sides of the tire's centerline that face the same direction. These grooves improve hydroplaning resistance at high speeds by pushing water through the tread pattern more efficiently. Unless they are uninstalled and remounted on their wheels to permit usage on the opposite side of the vehicle, directional tires are meant to be rotated from the front axle to the rear axle and must be used only on one side of the vehicle. If various tire sizes are utilized on the front and rear axles, tire rotation cannot occur until the tires are remounted.

Directional and Asymmetric Tire Tread Patterns

Asymmetric and directional tread designs have offset v-shaped tread grooves relative to the tire's centerline. Tires with both asymmetric and directional tread patterns should be rotated like directional tires. Nevertheless, if different tire sizes are used for the front and back axles, they become location-specific and eliminate the possibility of tire rotation.

Monitoring the tread depth of your tires is equally as important as having the appropriate tread pattern for certain road conditions.

Are you a vehicle enthusiast who can readily determine if your tires are still in excellent condition or are showing signs of wear? If your car needs new tires, please bring it to Don's D.I. Auto & Truck Service now.