There is an opinion that regular tire rotation on a vehicle can extend their lifespan and ensure even wear. How effective this practice really is and what benefits it brings is explained by an expert from the publication 'Za Rulem'.
What is the purpose of rotating tires?
The tires on the front and rear axles of a vehicle are subjected to different loads, leading to uneven wear. The front wheels experience greater stress due to the heavy engine located at the front and the influence of steering. As a result, front tires tend to wear more on the edges of the tread, while rear tires generally wear in the center. The type of drive also affects the rate of wear: tires on the driven wheels wear out faster.
How to properly rotate tires?
Experts recommend swapping the front wheels with the rear ones. Many summer tires have a non-directional tread pattern, so in this case, it is better to rotate the tires diagonally. If the tires have a directional tread pattern, they should be rotated in such a way that the direction of rotation remains the same, or they should be sent for re-treading. If there are damaged tires among the wheels, it is better to install them on the rear axle: regardless of the type of drive, a failure of a rear wheel is less dangerous than problems with a front one.
