Tire rotation refers to tactfully transferring tires from one axle to another on either side of an automobile. Experts advise that this should be done routinely, as part of your regular car maintenance, although it is a common misconception among car owners that this service is not important. Here are some reasons to get your tires rotated as recommended:
Tires Wear Unevenly
Tires on the front axle usually wear more on the outer edges because they lean over whenever you’re turning. The rear wheels simply follow the direction of the front tires. Hence, they wear more evenly. Failure to rotate tires, therefore, results in one edge of a front tire wearing too much compared to the rest of the surface. Consequently, you have to replace the set prematurely.
Additionally, tires of a front-wheel-drive automobile bear most of the friction and torque required for acceleration, turning, and braking. Therefore, they might have a shorter life than the rear ones. Tire rotation helps to distribute wear and tear amongst all the wheels for maximum longevity.
Consistent Traction and Handling
Tire rotation helps to optimize traction and handling. These two components get adversely affected when tires have varied tread depth. Maintaining uniform wear improves steering and braking performance, thereby, making your automobile safer to drive.
Reduced Stress on the Drivetrain
If you drive an all-wheel-drive vehicle, keeping your tires worn evenly helps to reduce the stress on the drivetrain. As a result, the drive components experience less wear and tear, making them last longer and saving you money.
Tire Mileage Warranty
Regular tire rotation is among the top car maintenance procedures that automakers recommend. You should perform it as per the manufacturer’s schedule or after every 5,000 miles. For most car owners, that’s the time they go for an oil change. Apart from keeping you safe and extending the life of your tires, tire rotation is necessary to keep most tire mileage warranties valid.
Tire Rotation Patterns
Several factors determine the tire rotation pattern that best suits your vehicle. Is your car rear-, front-, all-, or four-wheel-drive? Is the tread design directional or non-directional? Are all the tires the same size, and do you have a full-size spare to include in the rotation?
Most Commonly Used Tire Rotation Patterns for Equal-sized Wheels
X-Pattern
This arrangement is suitable for light-weight, front-wheel-drive automobiles, such as sedans and small trucks. All the wheels switch axles and change sides.
Forward Cross
This pattern suits front-wheel drive vehicles. You bring the rear tires to the opposite side of the front axle. The front wheels go to the back and remain on their respective sides.
Rearward Cross
If you have a rear-wheel, all-wheel or 4-wheel-drive car, the rearward cross may work best for you. You relocate the rear wheels to their respective sides of the front axle. On the other hand, the front tires change sides on the rear axle. An expert mechanic will be able to best determine which type of rotation is best for your vehicle.
Come to Valley Automall for Expert Car Maintenance
Tire rotation is essential in car maintenance. It increases the life of your tires, saves you money and keeps your car safe. It’s also an opportunity to inspect the entire wheel in depth.
Contact us today at 702-570-2257 for professional car maintenance. Our experts will rotate your tires for you while they perform other services.