Get A Grip On Regular Tyre Rotation

A common question customers often ask us is “Why should I rotate my tyres?” The truth is, not many people know just how important a tyre rotation is as it forms an essential part of maintaining your vehicle’s overall performance and safety. In this guide, we look at best practices for tyre rotation, tyre safety in general and the difference between wheel alignment and wheel balancing.

What Is Tyre Rotation?

To extend the life of your tyres, tyre rotation is a must. As recommended by manufacturers, cars and 4×4 vehicles should have their tyres rotated every 6000 miles and 4000 miles respectively (unless otherwise stated). The process involves moving each tyre from its current location to another – typically front-rear or side-side swaps. By regularly rotating your vehicle’s tyres, you can improve traction performance as well as overall safety on the road.

If you’re ever in a situation where you have to fit two new tyres, take the time and do it right. Only use this technique if all your tyres are non-directional and of the same size, then install the new ones onto your rear axle. This is an important tip that will keep you safe on the roads!

How To Perform A Tyre Rotation For Even Wear

While there are different ways to rotate your tyres, the most common method is to move the front tyres to the back and the back tyres to the front but it also depends on the vehicle. Although you can rotate your tyres at home, we highly recommend that you visit a tyre fitment centre. Please see below a breakdown of the different tyre rotation methods:

How To Rotate Tyres On A Front Wheel Drive Car

Move the front tyres to the back while making sure they stay on the same side. Now, move the rear tyres forward and intercross them; meaning that your previous right-rear tyre will be the new front-left tyre and vice versa.

How To Rotate Tyres On A Rear Wheel Drive Car:

Switch up your tyres by placing the rear ones on the front, keeping them positioned on the same side. Conversely, move the front tyres to the back and intercross them so your original front left tyre will become the new rear right tyre.

How To Rotate Tyres On 4×4 Vehicle

When rotating the tyres on a 4×4 vehicle, it is essential to do so in a crossed direction. This entails the front left tyre moving to the rear right and back again while doing the same with your front right and rear left tyres as they will switch places.

What Are The Benefits Of Tyre Rotation?

Regularly rotating your tyres can ensure that they wear evenly, which can help to prolong their lifespan and improve your car’s handling and braking capabilities. It essentially helps to eliminate the need for frequent tyre replacement, saving you money in the long run. Another major advantage of regular tyre rotation is that it can improve fuel economy and reduce road noise in the process.

Please note that a tyre rotation won’t correct any tyre wear caused by incorrect tyre pressure or wheel alignment issues. For best results, consult your vehicle owner’s manual to find the right tyre pressure and any other important tyre-related advice. It is also important to have regular wheel alignment and wheel balancing as this will help to prevent uneven tyre wear in the future.

What’s The Difference Between Wheel Alignment And Wheel Balancing?

Although people often confuse these two processes, they are actually quite different. Wheel alignment involves adjusting the suspension of the vehicle to make sure that all four wheels are parallel and perpendicular to each other. This ensures that the car handles correctly, with optimal tyre wear, driving straight, and minimal noise or vibrations while driving.

Wheel balancing, on the other hand, involves checking that there is an even distribution of weight around the wheel. This is done by adding small weights to the wheel to make sure that there is no imbalance which causes vibrations while driving. Wheel balancing helps ensure a smooth and comfortable ride as well as improved fuel economy, due to less rolling resistance on the tyres.

When Should I Rotate My Tyres?

It’s recommended that you take your car for a tyre rotation every time you service your vehicle or at least once every 12 months or 6,000 miles. While that’s the general consensus, you may need more regular tyre rotations if you often drive long distances at higher speeds or carry heavy loads.

For cars with directional tyres, the rotation pattern must match the rotation recommended by the manufacturer. This will ensure that you get the most out of your tyres, and maintain your car’s performance and safety.

If you get a flat tyre or need to replace them, it’s best that all four tyres are of the same type and size, as well as being rotated in the right direction and pattern. If you choose to fit two new tyres at any time, put the new ones on the rear axle. This will help to preserve your tyres while improving your car’s performance and safety levels.

Tyre Safety Tips

When it comes to tyre safety, it is important to check your tyres regularly for signs of wear and tear, such as uneven wear, bulges, cuts or slow punctures. It’s also important to ensure that your tyres are properly inflated, as under-inflated tyres can be more prone to blowouts which could prove fatal.

In addition to a tyre rotation, it’s also a good idea to have your tyres checked by a professional at least once a year to ensure they are in good condition and safe to drive on. Here are a few tips to look after your car tyres:

• Don’t accelerate too fast
• Avoid slamming on brakes unless in an emergency
• Keep to your vehicle’s load limits
• Make sure your tyre tread is above the legal minimum tread depth of at least 1.6mm
• Check your tyre pressure regularly and make sure it’s inflated correctly

Are Part-Worn Tyres Safe?

Although part-worn tyres may appear to be a great deal, you can never really know what kind of condition they’re in. Without any record of how the tyres have been used and handled, it’s important to remember that someone has taken them off their car since they were no longer suitable for use.

Don’t be fooled by the deceptive savings of part-worn tyres, as they are not worth the risk. Even though some may look decent at first glance, there could be underlying problems such as sidewall damage that could endanger you and your passengers. Don’t put yourself in danger – choose good quality tyres from a reputable tyre fitment centre.

Conclusion

Rotating your tyres, proper wheel alignment, wheel balancing and regular tyre safety checks are vital to maintaining the overall performance and safety of your car. As far as possible, rotate your tyres in a crossed direction and put new tyres on the rear axle for best results. By keeping your tyres in good condition, you can help prolong their lifespan while improving your car’s grip, handling and braking.

If you ever have any doubts about whether or not your car needs a tyre rotation, wheel alignment or wheel balancing, it is always best to consult a certified professional who can assess your vehicle and determine what needs to be done.

Tyre Rotation and Free Safety Checks At Elite Garages

By booking a free tyre check at Elite Garages, our tyre technicians can inspect your vehicle and provide feedback on any concerns. If you need new tyres, we have over a million tyres in stock, including budget tyres, premium tyres, EV tyres, 4×4 tyres and seasonal tyres. We will always do our utmost to offer the right tyre for your budget and driving requirements.

Choose Elite Garages as we are one of the leading fast-fit retailers and forecourt operators in the UK. We’re also a member of Group Tyre and represent more than 15% of the total tyres sold in the UK. Who better to trust with your MOT, vehicle service, tyre replacement or tyre rotation? Visit our Locations Page to find your nearest branch.