One of the most critical aspects of vehicle maintenance is tire rotation. We’ll explain everything you need to know about tire rotation, including when and why you should do it.

What Is a Tire Rotation?

You’ve likely heard this term many times; do you know what it means? A tire rotation service is when a mechanic swaps the positions of a vehicle’s tires. Drivers should rotate their tires approximately every 5,000 miles to benefit their tires’ tread and longevity.

Why Are Tire Rotations Important?

We know when to get a tire rotation, so now we’ll explain why you should do it. Rotating the tires is an important part of vehicle and tire maintenance. Rotating the wheel positions of the tires means that the tread on the tires will wear evenly. This will maximize the tires’ lifespan.

Each wheel position wears down the tire treads differently, especially if your vehicle is front-wheel or rear-wheel drive. Without a rotation, some tires will wear down faster than others, causing an imbalance that will apply uneven pressure to the tires and the suspension system.

Types of Tire Rotations

Not all tire rotations are the same. The three main types of tire rotations for passenger vehicles include the forward cross, rearward cross, and X-pattern rotation. Forward cross is when a mechanic moves the rear tires to the front and switches their sides. The front tires go to the rear but stay on the same side. This creates a directional cross-rotation of the tires.

The process is the same for rearward cross rotations but in the other direction. X-pattern rotations combine the two, so all four tires swap wheel positions diagonally.

What Tire Rotation Pattern Should I Get?

The best type of tire rotation for your vehicle will depend on its drivetrain (front-wheel, rear-wheel, or all/four-wheel drive) and the tread pattern of the tires. The most common tire rotation type is the forward-cross, as most vehicles are front-wheel drive. Still, the X-pattern is also common.

Forward and rear-cross patterns ensure all tires are positioned at every wheel at some point for even tread wear.

Where To Get a Tire Rotation in Laredo, TX

If it’s been more than 5,000 miles since your last tire rotation, RNR Tire Express can help! Stop by our tire shop in Laredo for a high-quality tire rotation service, or book an appointment ahead of time online.

Locations: Laredo, TX