What does a tire rotation do?
During a tire rotation service, the tires on your vehicle are swapped to different positions. Doing so helps ensure even wear and extends their lifespan. The exact pattern for rotation will depend on the type of vehicle you have, the type of tires, and their wear pattern.
First, we lift the vehicle using a hydraulic jack or lift to remove the wheels. We inspect each tire and wheel for damage, punctures, or uneven wear.
The tires are removed from their current position and moved to a different one according to the recommended pattern. For example, the front tires may be transferred to the rear and vice versa.
It’s also common for the technician to balance the tires, if necessary, which involves adding weights to the wheel to ensure it spins evenly.
We tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specification and adjust the tire pressure if necessary.
A test drive is conducted to ensure that the vehicle handles appropriately.
Is tire rotation essential?
There are several reasons to get regular tire rotations:
- Even tire wear: Tires wear differently depending on their position on your vehicle and the type of driving conditions they’re exposed to. Rotating your tires helps to ensure even wear across all four tires, saving you from having to change them prematurely.
- Improved traction: As tires wear down, their grip on the road surface can diminish. By rotating your tires, each tire has equal wear and maintains its hold on the road.
- Better fuel efficiency: When your tires are correctly inflated and evenly worn, your vehicle will have less rolling resistance, which improves fuel efficiency.
- Smoother ride: Unevenly worn tires can cause vibrations and a bumpy ride. By rotating your tires, you can help ensure your vehicle rides smoothly and comfortably.
- Safer handling: When your tires are evenly worn and maintain their grip on the road, your vehicle will handle better and be safer to drive, especially in wet or slippery conditions.
How often should you get a tire rotation?
Generally, we recommend you get a tire rotation every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every six months, whichever comes first.
You should check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific recommendations. The recommended interval can vary based on factors such as the type of vehicle, driving conditions, and the type of tires. Get in touch with Baker Auto Group if you require further assistance.
Is getting an alignment necessary?
Wheel alignment is essential. When your wheels are misaligned, your vehicle will often pull dangerously to one side. Wheel alignment helps to ensure that your car handles and brakes properly.
Misaligned wheels also cause uneven tire wear, reducing the life of your tires and leading to premature replacement. When your wheels are correctly aligned, your vehicle will have less rolling resistance, which can improve fuel efficiency and save you money on gas over time.
Misaligned wheels cause vibrations in your steering wheel and throughout your vehicle, making for an uncomfortable driving experience.
It’s generally recommended to have a wheel alignment every 10,000 miles or once a year, but let us check your alignment checked anytime you notice uneven tire wear, your vehicle pulling to one side, or if you hit a pothole or curb.