Tire Rotation
Since tires wear at different rates on the steer and drive axles of cars, it is imperative that
they be rotated at regular intervals to obtain maximum wear life. On rear-wheel-drive cars,
the rear tires generally wear faster than the front tires. On front-wheel-drive cars, the front
wear much quicker than the rear. Today, almost without exception, tire manufacturers'
mileage warranties require routine tire rotations such as every 5,000-8,000 miles.
Here are some important rules regarding tire rotation:
- Some tires ("unidirectional") are designed to run/rotate in only one direction as
indicated by arrows on the sidewall. Be sure to maintain the proper turning direction.
- Follow the rotation procedures in the vehicle owner's manual or use the suggested rotation patterns on this page.
- Be sure to adjust the inflation pressure front and rear according to the vehicle's tire information placard.
- Do not include small "temporary" spare tires in the rotation pattern. Full size spares may be included.
- Different size tires front and rear require special treatment. Consult the vehicle owner's manual.
- Some luxury cars may have "left side only" and "right side only" wheels. Always check the owner's manual before rotating.
Tire Mixing
"Mixing" means the application of compatible tires on each wheel end. Improper mixing of
different types of tires on any passenger or light truck vehicle can produce unacceptable
or dangerous handling conditions.
Here are some important rules regarding tire mixing:
- It is preferable that all four tires on a car or light truck be of the same size (except
cars which come with original equipment sizes that are different from front to rear
axle) and speed rating. In the event that the car has bias ply or bias belted tires
mixed with radial tires, the radials must be mounted on the rear axle in pairs.
- On light truck vehicles with dual tires on the rear axle, radials may be fitted on either axle.
- Snow tires should be applied to all four wheel positions whenever possible whether studless types or studded type.
Never mix non-radial snow tires on the rear axle with radial tires on the front axle.
- On 4X4 vehicles, it is important that all four tires are the same size to avoid "axle
fight" while in 4WD driving mode.
Different Series/Profile on Same Vehicle (Front or Rear Wheel Drive)
- Same size and type on an axle.
- Place the lower series/profile tires on rear.
Radials & Non-Radials on Same Vehicle (Front or Rear Wheel Drive)
- Same size and type on an axle.
- Radials on rear axle, non-radials on front axle.
All Four Same Size & Type on Same Vehicle (Front, Rear or Four Wheel Drive)
- All radial or all non-radial.
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