How Often Should You Rotate Your Tires?

As a diligent car owner, you likely prioritize keeping pace with routine maintenance. If that’s the case, then it begs the question, how often should you rotate your tires? Generally, when to rotate tires varies between 5,000–8,000 miles, depending on a variety of factors. While this is a strong rule of thumb, you’ll want to review your owner’s manual before planning how many miles to rotate your tires next. If you’re still unsure, you can work with our Salem service team to determine when to rotate your tires. Review our guide below and explore our generous service coupons for added savings with your next visit to Skyline Ford!

Rotating Tires on FWD & RWD Vehicles

The terms ‘front-wheel drive’ and ‘rear-wheel drive’ simply refer to where the power from the engine is sent. For a front-wheel drive car, for example, the engine power is sent to the front axle and out to the tires. The opposite is true for a rear-wheel drive vehicle. Whichever set of tires is receiving the engine power will take the brunt of the wear and tear as you commute from Keizer to Dallas. If you own a front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive model, keep the following tire rotation tips in mind:

• How often should you rotate your tires on a front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive car? The standard range of 5,000 to 8,000 miles is appropriate. Be sure to check your owner’s manual for exact recommendations. 
• Taking on a DIY front-wheel drive tire rotation in your own Corvallis garage? Be sure to flip sides when moving the rear tires. So, the back right tire will move to the front left. However, you’ll keep the tires on the same side when moving from front to rear. 
• For a rear-wheel drive vehicle, flip the process outlined above. Switch sides when moving front to rear. So, the front right tire will become the back left. Keep the tires on the same side when moving them forward. 
• Be mindful of your driving habits, as this can impact how many miles to rotate tires. If you consistently travel off-road, traverse construction zones, or drive across difficult terrain, you may need more frequent tire care. If you’re unsure of when to rotate tires, our service technicians can craft a plan for you. 

AWD Tire Rotation Tips

If you’re asking, “How many miles to rotate tires?” with an all-wheel drive model, then you’ll need to follow a different frequency than drivers of FWD and RWD vehicles. Since the power from the engine is sent to each tire, the rotation will need to follow a specific pattern and interval. So, how many miles to rotate tires on an all-wheel drive vehicle? Typically, you’ll want to have your tires rotated every 3,000 to 5,000 miles if you routinely drive with AWD engaged. The following pattern should be followed if you’re handling your all-wheel drive tire rotation on your own:

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

While this job is easy enough to tackle in your own driveway, many drivers prefer the convenience of having a professional handle the task. Book a service appointment with us in Salem the next time your tires are due for a rotation. 

Why Rotate Tires?

Now that you understand when to rotate tires, you might be curious why you should even bother in the first place. While most drivers recognize that rotating their tires will improve their lifespan, there are other benefits to the practice:

• Greater traction on slick roads
• Minimized road noise
• Removes unnecessary stress on the drivetrain

In order to stay prepared for the hazardous weather conditions that can crop up around Salem, keep pace with your tire rotations. While regular tire service will help them last longer, eventually, even the best tires need to be replaced. Work with our tire center team when you need a fresh set!

Get Your Tire Advice from Skyline Ford

Whether your tires are due for some TLC or you have lingering questions about servicing your vehicle, contact us at your convenience. Our team is standing by to support you through your automotive ownership journey!