Tire Rotation Overview

At its most basic level, a tire rotation simply means moving each of your tires to a new position on the vehicle. However, there are specific tire rotation pattern options service centers use to help maximize the benefits of the practice and the life of your tires. The pattern used varies by vehicle type, but the most common variation is sending the front tires to the back of the car and changing the side for the tires moving to the back. Variations may be required when there are directional tread patterns on your tires or the front, and rear tires on your vehicle are different sizes.

The Importance of Regular Rotations

Tire rotation is essential for the even wear of your tires. For most vehicles, the front tires receive more wear, so regular rotation helps distribute this to each individual tire over time. Regular rotation helps maximize the life of the tire and can be a requirement for retaining access to tire warranties. It also increases your chances of replacing all four tires at the same time to keep a matched set in use —a best practice for handling, alignment, and more. Avoiding excessive wear on specific tires also helps your vehicle maneuver better in unique driving situations, such as slippery roads.

Tire Rotation Recommended Intervals

Tire rotations are recommended at mileage-based intervals. These can vary from tire to tire, so always refer to your tire warranty or recommended service schedule for the best advice. An average for rotation is every 3,000 to 6,000 miles. For the first rotation of a new set of tires, consider hitting the 3,000 mark for best results.