Tire rotation may not seem like a big task compared to other car maintenance chores, but it’s crucial for your safety and can help you save money. Like changing your oil, rotating your tires can be done on your own, but it might be best for your vehicle and far more convenient to entrust it to a qualified service center. Here’s everything else you should know about tire rotation. Also, be sure to book an appointment at Huffines Kia McKinney for your next tire rotation, tire replacement, or other common automotive services.
What Are Tire Rotations?
A tire rotation is when your vehicle’s tires are moved from one wheel to another. In a front-wheel-drive vehicle, the rear tires are normally pushed to the front end’s opposing sides, while the front tires are typically moved straight back. With rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, it’s usually the opposite: the front tires move diagonally to the opposing rear wheel, and the rear tires move straight forward to the front positions.
Most vehicles have more weight burdening the front than the rear due to the engine being up front and the rear seats not being used as often. For most drivers, rotation is needed to protect the condition of the front tires first, although it depends on the vehicle and how much weight the front or back receives.
It’s wise to get a completely new set of tires when you have to rather than trying to replace old ones individually at different times. Most cars need a rotation at some point, which helps balance out the wear and preserve the total lifespan of your most-worn tires. You’ll save money and spend less time with your car in the shop by getting it done at the recommended mileage driven.
When Should You Rotate Your Tires?
Your car owner’s manual should have recommended times for all major services. That being said, experts generally advise getting tires rotated around 8,000 miles, possibly 5,000 miles for a high-performance vehicle. It’s common to get it done during an oil change since it only takes a few extra minutes.
The various bumps and other forces on your car’s wheels cause them to go slightly out of their perfectly straight and level alignment. This should be fixed with what is called a wheel alignment, usually every three years or so. If your vehicle hasn’t had a wheel alignment or other related service tasks in a long time, it could be the reason why your tires wear down faster and need rotation sooner.
Why You Need to Rotate Your Tires
There are several benefits to getting your tires rotated. There are obvious safety issues if the treads on your tires are worn down too far or unevenly, which will happen faster without proper rotations. Understandably, tires in good condition will also lead to optimal performance, encouraging secure handling and reducing excess road noise or vibration. The suspension system, axles, differentials, wheels, and wheel bearings can all suffer from poor tire condition, leading to more visits to a service center than you would’ve otherwise needed.
Finally, you’ll need to perform all the required service tasks within the manufacturer-recommended service schedule time frame to keep your warranty coverage. That usually includes getting a tire rotation after 5,000 to 8,000 miles of driving.
Should I DIY Tire Rotations?
Like changing your oil, you can rotate your tires on your own if you have the necessary information, tools, and skills. Considerations must be made for whether the vehicle is front-wheel, rear-wheel, or all-wheel drive. Based on the type of tires and the vehicle itself, particular rotation techniques might be impractical or impossible where you live. For most people, it’s best to leave tire rotation to the professionals. Feel free to book an appointment with the Huffines Kia McKinney service center for the best prices and fastest car care in McKinney, Texas.
Risks of Not Rotating Your Tires
It’s nice to know that once your tires have been rotated appropriately, you’ve helped extend their total number of drivable miles. It can also assist you in maintaining your traction, equilibrium, and mobility in different situations, like slick or wet roads. Conversely, here are a few things you can avoid by rotating your tires at the right time:
- Higher maintenance costs: Without regular tire rotation, the tire with the most wear is going to reach the point of no return sooner. It’s best to get all your tires changed at once, so if one tire wears out sooner, that means more frequent changes and less value from each set of tires you buy.
- Lower safety: Understandably, keeping your tires rotated and in proper condition is important to stay safe on the road and avoid dangerous or expensive accidents.
- Lost warranty: Some manufacturers require tire rotations to maintain their new or certified pre-owned car guarantees. By ignoring rotations or other required tasks, you run the risk of having your warranty rejected.
If you haven’t rotated your tires in a while, try to notice if your steering wheel is vibrating while driving or if anything else feels unusual. Low tire pressure could also be the case, but low treads shouldn’t be ruled out. Check the tread after ensuring they are inflated to the correct pressure, as specified in the owner’s manual.
Get Tire Rotations and More at Our Service Center
Having your tires rotated each time you get your oil changed is a good policy since it’s easy at that time to check if you need them rotated and to get it done in a few extra minutes. The same is true for a complete tire replacement. Check out the Huffines Kia McKinney tire center for better deals on major tire brands and services for your Kia or any other vehicle.
There are plenty of reasons to stay on top of this service, so remember to schedule it at the proper time. The job is easy for a qualified service center like ours, and we offer the best service specials and pricing. To schedule your next service visit, give our Kia service center a call at 469-525-4400, use our online scheduling form, or send a message through our site.