How to Rotate Tires

Los Angeles drivers know tire care is important, from knowing how many miles tires last, to knowing what to do if the tire pressure light is on. If you enjoy DIY car maintenance, it’s easy to learn how to rotate tires at home with Kia of Cerritos! Even if you prefer to rely on our service department for routine maintenance, we can walk you through what the process entails.

What is Tire Rotation?

Tire rotation is simply moving each tire to a different wheel so they wear evenly on Carson roads. Rotating can help you get better fuel economy, benefit from better traction on slippery roads, and ride with less noise and vibration. Tire rotation will increase the life of your tires, but you’ll still need to replace your tires eventually. Front and rear-wheel drive vehicles generally need their tires rotated every 5,000-7,500 miles. All-wheel drive vehicles require more frequent changes at every 3,000-5,000 miles We recommend checking your owner’s manual for more specific recommendations.

Tire Position

• For FWD, move the rear tires to the front and flip them. The left rear tire should go on the right front wheel. When you move the front tires to the back, keep them on the same side.
• For RWD, move the front tires to the back and flip them. The left front should go on the right rear wheel. When you move the back tires to the front, keep them on the same side.

How to Rotate Tires at Home

1. Engage parking brake for an extra measure of safety.
2. Loosen the lug nuts on all four wheels, but don’t take them all the way off.
3. Lift up one wheel with a car jack and place the jack stand underneath it.
4. Remove the tires and make sure they are filled to the optimal tire pressure. Rotate them according to the appropriate pattern for your drivetrain. Place the tire onto the wheel mount and screw the lug nuts on by hand as far as you can.
5. Lower the car from the jack stands and use the lug wrench to finish tightening the nuts. It’s best to work the lug nuts diagonally from one to another in a star pattern to ensure even tightening. If the lug nuts aren’t tightened evenly it can cause the brake rotor to warp.

Save on Tire Service at Kia of Cerritos

Whether you need help with rotating your tires or want tips on other repairs you can do at home, we hope to be your go-to resource! Not into DIY? No problem! Get a great deal on tire service at Kia of Cerritos. Be sure to rely on us the next time you need service in the greater Orange County area!

Want to learn more service tips? Be sure to read up on how to check coolant levels today, and learn what an alternator does!