How Often Should You Rotate Your Tires?

Car tire rotation is generally performed every 5,000 to 7,000 miles. What’s the significance of this important vehicle maintenance task, and why should it be done so often, especially considering that the average driver travels around 12,000 miles annually? Read on to learn more with the Toyota of Downtown LA service center.

Learn About Rotating Tires on FWD vs. RWD Vehicles

Tire rotation is done differently on front-wheel vs. rear-wheel drive vehicles. That’s because in FWD cars, power is sent directly to the front tires, while in RWD cars, it’s sent to the rear tires. The tires where power is sent will inevitably wear down more quickly than the other two tires, creating a need for different tire rotation patterns. So although the suggested amount of time in miles for when to rotate tires is the same for FWD and RWD vehicles, the tire rotation procedures differ in the following ways:

• On FWD vehicles, the rear right tire will go on the front left and vice versa. However, when moving the front tires to the back, keep them on the same side.
• On RWD vehicles, invert the above-mentioned procedure. In other words, change sides when moving the front tires to the back, but keep the rear tires on the same side when moving them forward.
• Your driving habits will inevitably have an effect on your recommended tire rotation interval. How often should you rotate your tires? The answer to the question is different for different Mission Hills and Cerritos drivers. If, for instance, you engage in drag racing, off-roading, or “aggressive” driving habits, the chances of you needing tire rotations more often is high. 

The above points having been said, you should also remember that both FWD and RWD cars should have their tires rotated every 5,000-7,000 miles. Check your owner’s manual for exact recommended figures or call 833-315-3922 for help.

Learn About Rotating Tires on AWD Vehicles

FWD or RWD vehicles are one thing. AWD vehicles are another, entirely. Since power from the engine in AWD vehicles is sent to all four wheels when you engage AWD, tire rotation will need to be done in a specific way and in closer intervals than with 2WD vehicles. Most AWD tires need to be rotated every 3,000 – 5,000 miles if you use AWD often in West Hollywood or have a car with full-time AWD (AWD that doesn’t turn off). You’ll also follow these tips when rotating your tires at home:

1. The left rear goes to the right front spot.
2. The right rear goes to the left front spot.
3. The right front goes to the left rear spot.
4. The left front goes to the right rear spot.

Why Rotate Tires?

Tire rotation has many benefits for Huntington Park drivers such as yourself, including:

• Improved traction on slippery roads
• Relieves unnecessary drivetrain stress
• Less noise on the road
• Longer tire life

Get Your Tire Advice From Toyota of Downtown LA

Ready to learn more about how many miles to rotate tires in your particular case? Looking for other service tips & hacks? We’re here to help! Give us a call at 833-315-3922 with questions. Otherwise, just schedule service online now to let our Toyota experts rotate your tires for you.

Service Specials From Toyota of Downtown LA

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