How to Rotate Your Tires

Learn to rotate your car's tires. A simple job that can save you a few bucks. So, go rotate your own tires then buy yourself a beer. Tools needed: Your spare tire tool set and 2 jack stands (bought at any auto parts store).

Step 1: Find Your Car's Lift Points

Find your car's lift points. Most cars have marked lift points. In this picture there is an arrow showing where to lift. If you are unsure your owners manual or a google search lift points with your cars year and model.

Step 2: Loosen Your Lug Nuts

Before lifting your car loosen the lug nuts. Don't remove them just break them loose. If you try to loosen them with the car lifted the wheel will just spin, since the weight of the car on the floor won't be holding them still.

Step 3: Lift Your Car

Using your jack lift your car enought to get the tire off the ground. (I am lifting a Chevy car from its lift point. The pinch weld is the most common lift point on economy cars.)

Step 4: Install Your Jack Stand

Install the Jack Stand and remove your Jack. The Jack Stand will keep your car secure while its lifted. Repeat steps 1-3 for the rear of your car. Remember, rotate one side at a time. I like to do drivers side first and passenger side last.

Step 5: Remove Your Lug Nuts

Remove the lug nuts from your wheels and remove tires.

Step 6: Rotate Your Tires

Now rotate your tires. I always put the best on the front. As seen in the picture the ones in the front have most tread left. Put your tires back on, tighten your lugnuts, remove the jack stands and tighten your lug nuts again. Make sure they are tight. No different than changing a spare.

Comments

[livichris]

does this actually save money or just delay the inevitable. I'd imagine you spend exactly the same you just end up changing 4 tyres at once half as often.

[MikeTheMechanic]

That's a awesome question. It will save by prolonging the life of your tires, but you're absolutely right about delaying the inevitable. It is recommended by most manufactures every 5,000 miles to get the most out of your tires. The tires on the front of the vehicle usually wear faster that the rears because they are steering the vehicle and don't just roll straight. Tires aren't going to last forever but it's cool just to make them last as long as we can.