Even if you’re not a car enthusiast, you probably ride in a car daily—and there are small details, like red and yellow dots on your tires, that most people overlook. But these markings actually serve a crucial safety purpose.

Perfectly balanced tires are nearly impossible to manufacture, so tire makers use colored dots to identify irregularities. The red dot marks the tire’s high point of stiffness, which should align with the wheel’s lowest point (often marked on the rim). This helps minimize vibrations and ensure proper balancing.

The yellow dot, on the other hand, indicates the tire’s lightest spot and should be placed near the valve stem, the wheel’s heaviest point, for a more balanced mount. If both dots are present, the red dot takes priority.

Properly balanced tires improve safety, reduce wear, and enhance your ride. While not every tire has these markings, they’re a helpful guide for technicians—and a small detail that plays a big role on the road.