Why is that important? Because wheel balancing is all about distributing weight evenly. The heaviest point of the wheel is typically the valve stem. When mounting a tire, technicians align the yellow dot with the valve stem so the lightest part of the tire offsets the heaviest part of the wheel.
This alignment:
- Reduces vibrations
- Improves ride comfort
- Helps prevent uneven tire wear
When done correctly, it minimizes the amount of wheel weights needed to balance the tire.
Red Dots: The Flattest (or Lowest) Point of the Tire
The red dot indicates the flattest or lowest point of the tire—also known as the point of maximum radial force variation.
To compensate for this, the red dot should be positioned opposite the highest point of the wheel, which is often marked with a notch, dimple, or colored indicator by the wheel manufacturer.
Aligning these points:
- Improves tire roundness
- Enhances balance precision
- Creates a smoother driving experience
If both red and yellow dots are present, most manufacturers recommend prioritizing the red dot.
