When to rotate your tires
- It has been about as long as your owner’s manual or tire maker recommends.
- You notice the front or rear tires wearing faster than the others.
- You feel a vibration at highway speeds.
- You’re getting an oil change and want to knock out another maintenance item.
- You just bought a new set of tires.
What a tire rotation involves
The rotation pattern depends on your drivetrain (front-, rear- or all-wheel drive) and your tire type, and your owner’s manual or the tire maker lists the recommended pattern and interval. A rotation is also a good time to check tire pressure and tread depth and to look for damage.
Rotation is not the same as wheel balancing or alignment. If your vehicle pulls to one side or shakes, other service may be needed. Badly worn tires may be better replaced — see our new and used tires.
Common questions about tire rotation
How often should I rotate my tires?
Follow the interval in your owner’s manual or from your tire maker. Many drivers rotate their tires along with their regular oil changes.
Does rotating tires fix a vibration?
Not necessarily. Vibration can come from an unbalanced tire, a bent wheel or worn suspension parts. Rotation helps even out wear but doesn’t replace balancing or alignment.
Why does tire wear matter?
Even wear gives you longer tire life, better traction and a smoother ride. Uneven wear is also an early warning sign of other problems.