What Is a Nearside Rear Tyre? Explained Simply

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Confused by terms like nearside and offside? You’re not alone. In this short guide, we explain what the nearside rear tyre is, where to find it on your vehicle, and why understanding this terminology can make MOT checks, tyre replacements, and garage visits far simpler.

You’d be forgiven for thinking we’ve suddenly switched to talking about football or some other sport, once the terms ‘nearside’ and ‘offside’ start being thrown around.

However, these terms are also used in the vehicle maintenance and tyre market, referring to the placement of the tyre and which side of the vehicle it sits on.

Why is it Important to Know Which Side is Nearside?

When you get in touch with Tyres.co.uk to discuss replacement tyres, our team will ask which tyres specifically need replacing. Knowing which side is the nearside and which is the offside will help you to identify your specific tyre needs and communicate them more efficiently. 

A knowledge of terminology like nearside and offside can also help vehicle owners to identify the issues on an MOT certificate or service checklist. When discussing which tyres need to be monitored or replaced in the near future, nearside and offside will often be used as a quick way of determining the exact location.

NOTE: Sometimes, nearside will be noted as simply N/S.

Where is the Nearside Rear Tyre Located?

Nearside refers to the passenger side of the vehicle.

Rear is the back tyre.

So, the nearside rear tyre is the back tyre on the passenger side.

This is otherwise known as N/S/R.

So, the next time you receive an invoice or a checklist of recommended work from your garage or mechanic, you can be sure to understand the terminology and reference to different tyres on your car. For more advice like this and to source the best tyres at industry leading prices, get in touch with the Tyres.co.uk team.

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