Tire Rotation: Why You Need to Do it Regularly

How often do you think about the care your vehicle’s tires need?

Even if you do remember to check the air pressure every so often, what about tire rotation?

Do you have any idea when this maintenance task should be done?

Here’s some help.

Why you need to rotate your tires
Uneven tread is dangerous.

It can prevent your car from stopping efficiently on icy, snowy, or wet pavement.

Regular tire rotation will also:
Ensure that all four tires have the same tread. (When two of your tires have different treads, your car is more likely to fishtail or hydroplane.)
Increase your gas mileage.
Increase handling.
Increase your vehicle’s overall performance.
How often do your tires need to be rotated?
As is usually the case, consult your owner’s manual.

In general, however, the recommendation is to have your tires rotated about every 5,000 miles, though different sources will say anywhere from 3,000 to 6,000 miles.

Often, the rotation will be performed at each oil change.

It’s especially important for the tread to be even on all-wheel-drive vehicles, otherwise, the system can be damaged.

How are tires rotated?
This is generally not a maintenance task you’ll perform on your own – unless you’re a mechanic.

Usually, the front tires will be moved to the back and vice-versa.

If the wear appears to be uneven, your mechanic may opt to cross-rotate the tires.

For rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive cars, the back tires are moved to the front and the front tires are moved diagonally to the back.

For example, the right front tire would be moved to the left rear position.

For front-wheel drive cars, the front tires are moved to the back and the back tires are moved diagonally to the front.

A lot is riding on your tires
No matter where you go, your vehicle is carrying precious cargo.

Make sure you’re staying on top of tire care.

See the folks at our Serra Auto Park locations for help!