3 Deadly Scenarios: Expert Reveals Dangers of Tire Mounting Mistakes

If a tire with directional tread pattern is installed incorrectly, it won’t effectively channel water away from the road contact area. As a result, the tread blocks become blocked, increasing the risk of hydroplaning and skidding on snowy slush. Rastegaev explained that the speed at which hydroplaning occurs decreases by 10-15% compared to correct installation.
According to the expert, premature loss of tire traction due to water film or wet snow deteriorates handling and can lead to dangerous situations on the road. It’s particularly hazardous when tires with opposite tread patterns are mounted on the same axle.
Rastegaev emphasized that in such cases, acceleration or braking on snow or slush can create a force that disrupts stability, potentially causing the car to spin.
Incorrect tire mounting at a workshop indicates a very low level of service, as tires with a directional tread always have rotational direction markings on the sidewalls, while asymmetric tires have indications for the inner and outer sides when mounted on the wheel, concluded the specialist.