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The Importance of Tire Rotation

If you are looking for a smooth ride, better vehicle control and an overall enjoyable driving experience, consider rotating your tires. The need for new tires is a common misconception people have when their current tires are starting to wear down. Regular tire rotation helps extend the life of your tires and improves performance overall, therefore buying new tires right away is not always the solution. One way to save a few bucks is doing your own auto maintenance, but for those not as car savvy, Elite RV & Car Care can assist with the vehicle repairs you need.

When Should I Rotate My Tires?

According to cars.com, you should rotate your vehicle’s tires every six months, or between 6,000-8,000 miles, depending on your automaker. There is an exception for certain vehicle models to rotate tires more frequently or less often. Tire wear on performance vehicles tend to be more severe than the wear on a larger family sedan. To ensure longevity and a smoother ride for your vehicle it is best to follow the recommended schedule in your owner’s manual. Another rule of thumb is to rotate tires when you change your oil, at least once a year.

The Rotation Matters

When it comes to tire rotation, the pattern is everything. Rear-Wheel, Front-Wheel and Four-Wheel drive have specific patterns that must be followed in order to ensure correct tire rotation. During rotations, each tire and wheel is removed and moved to a different position. By doing this it ensures all tires will wear evenly and last longer. When rotating your tires you must be aware of the pattern:

Rear-Wheel Drive:
Rotate front tires to the opposite sides of the rear, and rear tires then move straight forward.
Right-front to left-rear, left-front to right-rear. Right-rear to right-front, left-rear to left front.
Front-Wheel Drive:
Move front tires straight back, and rotate rear tires to opposite front sides.
Right-front to right-rear, left-front to left-rear. Right-rear to left-front, left-rear to right-front.
Four-Wheel Drive:
Rotate front tires to opposite rear sides, and rear tires to opposite front sides.
Right-front to left-rear, left-front to right-rear. Right-rear to left-front, left-rear to right-front.
Uni-Directional:
Move front tires straight back and rear tires straight forward.
Right-front to right rear, left-front to left-rear. Right -rear to right-front, left-rear to left-front.

The Time Has Come

You know it is time to rotate your tires when you start to hear more road noise and vibrations – commonly noticed in the steering wheel. It’s easy to give your tires a quick check before rotating or replacing. To check your tire tread, place a penny, head-first, into the tread to check it’s depth. If you can see President Lincoln’s head it is time for some new tires for your vehicle. Come into Elite RV & Car Care today for help diagnosing your tires. Call (281) 812-3085.