Can anyone tell me if the Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires are directional? My tire shop ordered two tires (255/35/18) and mounted them on the rear rims. There is the word 'outside' written on the tire. When I checked the tread pattern, it seemed like the tread is running backwards on the rear driver side tire. In other words, I ended up getting two rear passenger side tires.

When I inquired with the tech, he said that's the way Michelin made the tire. I was under the impression that these PS2's were assymetric AND directional (i.e. you can't interchange the two and you have to order a right side and a left side). In other words, I have two the same tires. Am I right? Thanks in advance for your help!

 

I spoke to a Michelin Rep from a # I found on the Michelin website. According to him, the PS2's are an Asymmetric tire but NOT directional. That is why the tire sizes are not offered in a right and left tire. In other words, I have the proper tires. They just look strange when you look at the tread pattern from the rear of the car.

I just find it very strange that the tread would not be the same on either sides. The tread is running forward on the passenger side rear tire but the tread is running backwards on the driver's side rear tire. (If this statement doesn't make sence to you, go to the Michelin site and have a close look at the treads). I assume water clearance would be affected by this differing direction but I'm no tire pro. I am still waiting for Jim to get back to me.