Rotating your tires may seem like an unnecessary hassle, but auto manufacturers recommend routine tire rotation maintenance for a reason. Even if your tires aren't causing you any problems, regular maintenance, including rotation, is crucial for ensuring that they continue to perform optimally. The key to understanding why this simple maintenance task is a good idea is learning about the process and reasons for which tire rotation is recommended. Metro Motor is here to explain!
What is Tire Rotation?
While different rotation patterns are sometimes recommended for different vehicles, tire rotation generally involves switching the front tires of your vehicle with its rear tires. It is a regular maintenance procedure that is usually recommended in vehicles' owner's manuals.
How Often Do Tires Need to Be Rotated?
Different vehicles require tire rotation at different times. The manufacturer's recommendation will be outlined in the owner's manual, but tire rotation is usually called for every 5,000 to 10,000 miles driven.
Why Do I Need to Rotate My Tires?
In basic terms, the benefit of tire rotation is that the procedure has the potential to extend the life of your tires and reduce costs. It does so by equalizing the wear of your tires; front tires generally wear faster than rear tires, so switching the rear tires to the front and the front tires to the rear after driving a certain amount will help ensure that all four of your tires wear at a more equal rate and can be changed at the same time.
Beyond the economic benefits of rotating your tires, the maintenance procedure can also help make your vehicle safer to drive. Making sure that the tires wear evenly helps improve the vehicle's handling, which will improve your control of the vehicle in an emergency situation such as hydroplaning.
If you have questions about the benefits of regular tire rotation and other preventative vehicle maintenance, Metro Motor is here for you. Contact us or stop by any of our convenient locations in DC, Maryland, or Virginia today.
Vehicle care information made available by Metro Motor is presented as helpful advice for general maintenance and should not be construed as instructions for at-home vehicle service. Be sure to consult your owner’s manual and a licensed, professional mechanic for diagnostics and repair.