Tires are generally at the bottom, be it in the car or car maintenance list. Though at the bottom, it is one of the essential things of a vehicle and so is tire maintenance. The tire is the part of a vehicle that gets the most wear and tear. Tire rotation can help you stay safe while driving. At times tire rotation costs may mount up and can prove to be heavy on your pocket. But if done at the right time, it can save you a handful of bugs.
What is Tire Rotation?
Tire Rotation is an essential process of vehicle maintenance or car servicing. It is a process in which the tires of the vehicle are switched from one position to another. It helps in ensuring the longevity and safety of the car. It maintains and improves the balance which is affected by the wear and tear of the tire. Tire rotation ensures that the tire gets wear and tear evenly. A good tire rotation can extend the lifespan of the tire up to 30,000 to 40,000 miles under normal driving conditions and with regular maintenance.
How Frequently Should You Rotate Tires?
Now that you know tire rotation is an important part of maintaining your vehicle, you must be wondering how to know when you should do the tire rotation. The general thumb rules recommends this car servicing step after every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. On average, you can do this every 6 or 12 months. However, it depends on various factors such as vehicle type, model, how old or new it is, how it has been handled, etc.
While my father has always said, your car speaks, you just need to hear it out. The car will tell itself when it’s time for tire rotation. Watch out closely if there is uneven wearing and tearing of the tire, or if you are experiencing any problems with the balance. Moreover, other signs can be frequent low tire pressure on one or two tires and maybe a slight vibration when driving at high speed. All these things are the way your vehicle tells you- It’s time for tire rotation.
You can always consult a mechanic if you are not good at observing your car and identifying its needs.
Factors Affecting Tire Rotation Duration:
The frequency of tire rotation can vary depending on various factors. Thus it is important to consider the owner’s manual for the right time of tire rotation.
Tire Type and Size
Tires with asymmetric or directional tread patterns may need to be rotated differently compared to symmetrical tires. Higher-quality tires may have better wear characteristics and can potentially extend the interval between rotations.
Driving Conditions
Frequent driving on rough, uneven, or poorly maintained roads can lead to increased tire wear, necessitating more frequent rotations. Extreme weather conditions (hot, cold, wet) can affect tire performance and wear rates, influencing rotation frequency.
Driving Habits
Hard acceleration, sharp turns, and abrupt braking can increase tire wear, requiring more frequent rotations. The more you drive, the more often you’ll need to rotate your tires. High mileage can accelerate tire wear and necessitate more frequent rotations.
Tire Pressure Maintenance
Incorrect tire pressure can lead to uneven wear patterns, which can impact the duration between rotations.
What is the Average Tire Rotation Cost?
Tire rotation costs on average range between $24 to $50. However, it can even go as high as up to $120. The cost of tire rotation depends on how much it needs servicing and which service provider you are choosing. If you want to cut the tire rotation cost, you can even perform this work yourself. However, this requires the right knowledge and skills to ensure the best outcome.
However, we advise you to get it done by a qualified mechanic with good visual inspection and who can offer a professional level of service.
Tire Maintenance Tips
The right tire maintenance ensures the longevity of the tire, along with great performance and mileage. And most importantly, it can ensure a safe ride. Here are some of the tire maintainable tips that every vehicle owner must do:
- Create a maintenance checklist, and don’t forget to mention the tire rotation frequency in the owner’s manual.
- While buying a new tire, always try to get free rotation services during the warranty period. This can save the tire rotation cost.
- Also, check the balance of the car and be vigilant about the weak and tear of the tire.
The Bottom Line:
Safety is the prime concern when it comes to driving. One thing that can keep you safe on your journey is healthy and well-balanced tires. You can achieve it with time-to-time tire rotation. The advisable time of tire rotation is every 5,000 to 8,000 miles or six to twelve months. However, always compare the tire rotation cost from 2-4 maintenance centers before opting for one. The average cost of tire rotation is $24 to $50, while you can save it by doing the tire rotation yourself, or by getting a complimentary tire rotation service.
Also Read Our Blog: How Much Does Car Detailing Service Cost?
Powered By