Tire rotation might not seem like it’s doing much, but it’s actually an important maintenance step for any vehicle. If you aren’t familiar with this process, use this guide to learn more about its benefits and how professional auto mechanics perform it.

What to Know About Tire Rotation

What are the benefits?

Multiple factors cause tires to wear out unevenly. Engine placement puts more weight on the front tires, and roads slope toward gutters, causing cars to lean harder on their curbside wheels.

Moving the tires around evens out their wear and allows the entire set to last longer. An even tread also helps drivers maintain control. Hydroplaning and skidding are more prevalent in vehicles with uneven tread. It also helps prevent dangerous accidents such as blowouts. 

How often should it be done?

Rotations should be performed every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. This is about the same interval as oil changes. Schedule them together at a full-service auto shop to take care of both tasks in one appointment.

How is it done?

The rear tires move to the front and vice versa. Then, one set is swapped from left to right as well. In front-wheel drive cars, these should be the front tires. In rear-wheel, all-wheel, and four-wheel drive vehicles, the rear tires should switch positions.

Because of the engine block’s weight, some vehicles recommend different PSI ranges for front and rear tires. Mechanics will adjust air pressure as the final step of the rotation.

Do all types of tires benefit from rotation?

All vehicles benefit from this service, but some tires need different rotation patterns. Staggered tires — which are front and rear wheels that aren’t the same sizes — should be switched from left to right without moving forward or backward.

Unidirectional tires create the opposite situation. Because they’re designed to roll in only one direction, they must only be rotated front to back. These tires will be marked on the sidewall with an arrow indicating which way they need to turn.

Should spare tires be included?

If the vehicle is equipped with a full-size spare, adding it into the rotation can further extend the set’s lifespan. However, most cars carry temporary spares or none at all. Temporary variants aren’t meant to be driven on under normal conditions. Spares will only be included if they match the other four tires.

 

When you need a friendly and reliable mechanic to help with tire rotations, contact L & B Auto Repair in Brooklyn, NY. They’ve helped drivers stay on top of vehicle maintenance since 1992. With a reputation for honesty and quality work, they’re the team you want to trust with your transportation. Call (718) 398-6228 to make an appointment.