Most car owners follow a strict schedule when it comes to changing their vehicle’s oil. However, due to lack of information, a majority of the common public tends to overlook another crucial factor in their vehicle’s wellbeing. That is, how often should tires be rotated. Apart from being relatively unaware about the proper analogy behind the rotation of tires, there is also a misconception that needs to be addressed.
Hence, in this article, we will take a look at the proper duration as to when every car owner should rotate his or her vehicle’s tires. We will also inform you about the set of benefits which this particular activity can impart to your vehicle’s performance.
How Often Should Tires be Rotated?
When it comes to rotating your tires, it depends on two different factors. First of all, you should always make this decision based on the car you own. Second, one should keep in mind how frequent they drive their vehicle on a monthly basis.
Nonetheless, according to car manufacturers, it is recommended to get your tires rotated every after 5000 to 8000 miles driven. Some people can cover this distance in six months while others or the frequent riders can do it in just three months. However, you should also consult your car’s manual while making this decision. This is due to the reason that while the aforementioned limit is associated with the likes of Toyotas and Volkswagens, other luxury vehicles such as BMW, can allow you to go up to 15000 miles before rotating your tires.
Having said that, if you want to keep your tires in optimal shape, you should always get them rotated once every six months. In other words, you can do it at the same time when you change your vehicle’s oil.
Why Should Car Tires be Rotated?
Now that you already have a clear understanding of how often should tires be rotated, it is time to look at the benefits which are usually associated with this activity.
- Optimal Performance
The two front tires of every vehicle have to exert a greater amount of force as compared to the rear axles. This is due to the reason that they have to do extra work while turning, steering and braking. Similarly, a wide range of vehicles which are available in today’s market incorporate engine along with many other components on their front side. That will eventually add a considerable amount of weight on the front axles. If you keep on using fixed tires on the front end, after some time, your front axles will get completely worn out. Since it isn’t recommended to drive with two sets of tires with mismatched tread depth, you eventually have to replace all four of them, including the two at the back which could have still been used for a couple of years. However, if you act smart and get your tires rotated once every six months, it will spread the equal burden across all the four axles. Not only will it promote equal wear and tear across all four of them, but at the same time, it can also help them produce optimal traction on a consistent basis. It will also enhance their lifespan which is of the great essence for all those car owners who do not want to invest in a new set of tires after a few years. Likewise, with their help, you can enjoy a stable ride, and they also play a key role when it comes to facilitating a safe ride. It doesn’t matter whether you own a traditional-looking Ford or even a brand new BMW, it just cannot perform to its fullest as long as the tires aren’t up to the mark. - Fuel Mileage
Another advantage which is usually associated with tire rotation is the fact that it can help you acquire a better fuel mileage. The reason behind it is that once you get your tires rotated, they can move smoothly across all kinds of surfaces. As a result, they will produce less friction with the underneath surface which can eventually save you a great deal of money. - Tires’ Warranty
Some tire manufacturers have made it necessary for the car owners to get their tires rotated after every few months. Otherwise, they will nullify the warranty which is usually offered when you purchase a new set of tires. Basically, all of them have set mileage warranties after considering the tire rotations which a person should perform for the specified duration. So, if you have forgotten to revolve your tries, and they experience untimely scratches, those manufacturers won’t honor your warranty claims. Hence, if you want to save yourself from any such situation, it is imperative to visit a mechanic on a regular basis.
What is the Common Misconception about Tire Rotation?
One misconception common amongst a minority of car owners is that tires should not be rotated at all. They believe that one should keep on using fixed tires in all four positions. Once they wear out, they should only replace the front with new tires using the original back tires while they are purchasing two other new tires for the back axles.
As already mentioned, this is not a good idea by any means. Ask any tire expert, and they will tell you how dangerous it could be to drive with four tires of mismatched tread patterns. Apart from various other complications, these tires would produce different amounts of traction in slippery conditions which can eventually end up in serious accidents.
Thus, as long as you do not have enough money for a premature replacement of all the four tires, it is recommended to have your tires treated by an experienced mechanic.
Conclusion
Tire rotation comes handy in a number of different ways. From keeping your vehicle up and running to making it easier for you to control, it can also enhance the overall lifespan of your tires. So, if you want to make the most out of your favorite automobile, you should always have your tires rotated every six months or 5000-8000 miles.
