Tire rotation is an aspect of vehicle maintenance that is sometimes overlooked, but it is extremely important. Cars exert pressure on front and back wheels differently, which may cause uneven wear. Below are a few reasons to have your tires rotated during your next oil change.

The Importance of Routine Tire Rotation

1. Longer-Lasting Tires

Rotating the tires, or switching where they are located on the vehicle, changes where each tire holds most of its weight. This ensures even tread wear, which maximizes your investment by lengthening the usable life span of each tire. Tires that are not rotated experience “pattern wear,” which is premature wearing on one area of the tire while the other areas are left virtually untouched. When this occurs, the only solution is replacement, even if the tires are relatively new. 

2. Safer Driving

Rotation distributes the weight of the vehicle evenly on each tire, keeping more tread surface area in contact with the road at any given time. Because the grip of the tread holds into the asphalt, this improves your traction for safer driving. You’ll have a lower likelihood of skidding around a corner or losing your traction when driving in less-than-desirable conditions such as rain or snow.

By limiting the amount of stress put on any one part of the tire, you’ll also significantly reduce your chances of tire failure. Dangerous blowouts, for example, occur when one part of the tire has been bearing all the weight for too long. A front-end misalignment from uneven wear will cause your vehicle to veer off to the side without warning. These issues can be avoided with even tread wear.

3. Improved Gas Mileage

With the weight evenly distributed, properly rotated tires will help the engine run more efficiently. Even tire wear reduces the amount of push and pull that road friction would cause, which keeps the vehicle more stable. When the vehicle needs to do less work to move, the engine requires less gas. As a result, you’ll notice you’re visiting the gas pump less after your rotation. Both your wallet and the environment will thank you.

The best way to ensure your wheels are always in top condition is to find a reputable tire shop and leave all wheel-related work to them. Phil’s Tire Shop is the go-to premier shop for drivers in the St. Louis, MO, region. Their experts can handle all maintenance, such as tire rotation and flat repairs. When the time comes to get new tires, they have a wide selection at affordable prices and offer warranties on sales. Learn more on their website and contact the tire store at (314) 544-3181 to schedule an appointment.