Why is Tire Rotation Important?

What does rotating your tires do? If this is a question you’re asking yourself, then you’re in luck. Our service team in Tuscaloosa has compiled a guide to provide you with all the pertinent details about tire rotation and the important role it plays in your safety on the Birmingham streets. Since tires don’t wear evenly, rotating them every so often prevents any single tire from wearing out faster than the others. If you have any additional questions on how often to rotate tires, don’t hesitate to contact us or look online for tire details or general maintenance information.

How Does Drivetrain Affect Tire Rotation? 

When you accelerate, brake, turn your wheels, and go around curves in Bessemer, all this requires friction between your tires and the road. Depending on the drivetrain your vehicle has, your tire treads will wear out at different rates.

• Front-wheel drive vehicle: Engine power is directed to the front wheels, which are responsible for steering, starting, and most of the stopping force. Therefore, the front tires will wear out the fastest.
• Rear-wheel drive vehicle: Engine power is directed to the rear wheels, but the front wheels are still responsible for steering and much of the braking. The rear tires will still wear out faster than the front tires, although at a generally slower rate.
• All-wheel drive vehicle: Engine power is more evenly distributed, but many experts out there maintain that the rear tires will still wear out faster.
• Intelligent all-wheel drive systems: Going around curves means different levels of strain and friction on the inside tires vs. outside tires. Some advanced all-wheel drive systems can even direct power to an individual wheel while driving around a curve for better cornering, which will further affect tire life.

How Often Should You Rotate Your Tires? 

On average, tires should be rotated every six months or every 5,000 miles to 8,000 miles. Of course, these intervals may be different for your Ford vehicle. It’s important to check your owner’s manual for exact figures. If you’re still unsure about how often to rotate your tires or you have additional questions, one of our certified service technicians can give you more information on how to care for your car. 

What Happens if I Don’t Rotate My Tires?

If you don’t schedule a tire rotation service, the tires will wear out faster than they should. Failing to rotate and replace tires at the proper time can lead to disastrous consequences:

• Poor traction and skidding on the roads
• More rapid deterioration of brake pads
• Flat tires and blowouts

Schedule Service With Our Experts at Tuscaloosa Ford

Whether you want to know why you should rotate tires or how often to rotate them, our service center team at Tuscaloosa Ford has all the information you need to know. When it comes time to bring your vehicle in for routine maintenance, be sure to browse our parts and service specials so you can save on your next visit. Let us help keep your Ford running like new on the Centreville roads.