If you read your owner's manual when you first got your new car, then you may have seen a recommendation to rotate your tires to a regular schedule. While this may not seem a vital thing to do, tire rotation is worth it. Why?

1. Help Your Tires Last Longer

Your tires all do the same job, but they won't all wear and tear evenly if they stay in the same places all the time. Your car puts pressure on each tire in a specific way according to its position. If you leave your tires in the same places permanently, then each tire will wear in certain places more than others. The weight of the car affects how and where they wear down over time. If a tire is worn in the same places all the time, then the wear damage in these spots increases more quickly. The more wear you have in key areas, the more likely the tire is to break down and need replacement.

If you rotate your tires, then you "spread" this wear. When each tire switches position, its old wear patterns get a break. Your tire will last for longer because you're spreading potential damage across all of its surface.

2. Replace Your Tires When You Need to

While there are times when it is obvious that you need a new tire, it isn't always easy to spot signs that a tire is coming to the end of its life. Sometimes, you don't know that this is happening until the tire is done and you have to arrange a quick or emergency replacement. If you set up a regular rotation schedule with your mechanic, then they can check your tires over as they switch them around. They can help you make sure that you replace any failing tires at the right time.

3. Spot Other Problems

The condition of your tires is a useful diagnostic tool. Regular rotation can tell you how your tires are doing and whether there is another problem with your wheels or the car itself. For example, if your car has a misalignment problem, then your suspension won't be quite right. You may not notice the problem when you drive right now; however, it could lead to more serious issues down the line. Problems like misalignments can show in your tires. They may start to wear in unusual places. If your mechanic sees these signs, they can fix the underlying problem as well.

Tire rotation isn't always just a question of moving tires around your vehicle. Depending on your car, you may have to stick to certain placement rules. To get advice on tire maintenance, contact your mechanic.

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