When and Why to Rotate Your Vehicle's Tires

The experts on our Cincinnati, OH Kings Volkswagen service department team recommend tire rotations every six months, roughly 6,000 to 8,000 miles. Tire rotations ensure even tread wear, better performance, and longevity.

Common Types of Tire Rotations

The most common types of tire rotations are:

  • Rearward cross
  • Forward cross
  • X-pattern
  • Side-to-side
  • Front-to-back

What's the Best Tire Rotation for Your Vehicle?

The best tire rotation for your vehicle depends on:

  • The drivetrain (rear-, front-, all-or four-wheel drive)
  • Tire size
  • Whether the tires are directional or non-directional
  • Whether you have a full-size spare

When in doubt, check your vehicle owner's manual. Owner's manuals typically have specific recommendations for tire rotations. A factory-trained tech in a service department can also determine what type of tire rotations your vehicle requires. Some rotations automatically correspond to certain types of vehicles.

For example, the rearward cross is best for non-directional tires of uniform size on an all-, rear- or four-wheel vehicle. Service techs suggest the x-pattern for front-wheel drive vehicles such as sedans and light-duty trucks.

Categories: Social