Most car owners remember to get routine maintenance like an oil change, or getting their brakes checked. Tires, on the other hand, tend to be out of sight and out of mind. However, for reasons ranging from safety to improving gas mileage, tires need regular maintenance just like all the other auto parts that work together to make your car run. According to the technicians at Privitt Auto Service Center in Colombia, MO, tire rotation is one of the most important aspects of tire maintenance. Below is their quick reference guide for the when, why, and how of tire rotation.

Why is Tire Rotation Important?

Car tires wear down over time. Due to differences in weight, the angle of tires as they turn, and other sources of stress, they will wear down unevenly. If they aren’t rotated to new positions, this uneven wear can lower your gas mileage, reduce the life span of your tires, and increase the likelihood of a flat tire or even a sudden and dangerous blowout.

How Often Should I Rotate My Tires?

To ensure your tires wear down evenly, they should be rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. To make it easier to remember, just get them rotated every time you go in for your regular oil change. Or, if you need car repair and are already heading to an auto shop, you might as well use the chance to ask for a tire rotation while you’re there.

How Does Tire Rotation Work?

Just like with an oil change, how your tires will be rotated depends on the type of car you drive and what kind of tires it uses. For some cars, such as those with front wheel drive, it’s common to move the front tires back and the rear tires up, placing each on the opposite side it started on. Many cars with high-performance tires can simply be switched from back to front or side to side.

If you’ve been ignoring your tires, or have other car care needs, residents of Colombia, MO, trust the four-plus decades of experience at Privitt Auto Service Center. From something as simple as an oil change to suspension repair and affordable auto parts, they’re the best name in auto shops for keeping your car on the road. Call them at (573) 449-7941 to book an appointment, or visit their website for a full list of services.