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Tire close-up

Tire rotation is an essential part of caring for your vehicle. Most drivers are aware of the need for this practice but often fail to understand just how important it is to the overall health of your vehicle. Not only does tire rotation extend the lifespan of your tires, but also enhances your safety on the road. The team at James Toyota is here to help you understand tire rotation best practices in order to travel safely and save yourself some potential trouble down the road.


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Why Do Tires Need to Be Rotated?

Tires naturally undergo wear and tear over time but it is not evenly distributed across all four tires. Some tires will receive much more damage than others depending on a number of factors including the type of vehicle, weight distribution, suspension, alignment, environment, and whether the vehicle is front-, rear-, or all-wheel drive. The more damage a tire takes the higher the risk of slippage, blowouts, and loss of control in emergency situations. Rotating your tires ensures that the work is better distributed and your tires are wearing evenly. This will extend the life of each tire and reduce the risk of a total tire failure.

Tire close-up

So, How Often Should I Be Rotating My Tires? 

Most manufacturers and service technicians recommend rotating your tires every 8,000 to 12,000 km. If you’re doing most of your driving on even, paved roads, you’ll likely be able to go longer without needing a rotation, putting you closer to the 12,000 km side. If you’re driving a larger vehicle, routinely towing big loads, or spending lots of time off-roading it, you’ll probably need to have your tires rotated closer to the 8,000 km mark. Your vehicle owner’s manual will have more specific information about the best tire rotation schedule for that specific make and model.

What Else Can I Do To Extend the Life of My Tires?  

In addition to following a consistent tire rotation schedule you can also use a few of these tips for better tire longevity. These practices will also aid in maintaining the overall health of your vehicle. 

  • Always install matching sets of tires. Mismatched tires will not only wear out faster but also take a toll on your vehicle’s balance and alignment.
  • Be vigilant about your tire pressure and inspections. Once a month, check the pressure and examine your tires for cracks or bulges.
  • Try to drive with a minimal payload. Cutting back on heavy cargo like extra tool boxes or crates of water bottles will help create less wear and tear on your tires.    

It’s easy to forget how important your tires really are until you find yourself on the side of the road with a blowout. Luckily, preventing such scenarios is also easy if you know how. If you’re interested in booking a service appointment for your vehicle with James Toyota, consider having us rotate your tires while we’re at it. It’s quick, easy, and always worth it. To learn more or get an expert opinion on your vehicle’s best tire rotation schedule, come visit us today at James Toyota on Riverside Drive in Timmins.