Let’s be real: the last time someone recommended you get your tires rotated or balanced, did you think you were getting scammed? It’s understandable. Because so many dealerships and manufacturers do such a poor job of explaining what tire rotation involves, drivers are left to suspect it’s just a generic add-on to your service estimate.
In reality, rotating and balancing your tires regularly is the most surefire way to increase your tires’ lifespan. Courtesy of the engineering experts here at Northpointe Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, here’s why you should make tire rotation and balance a regular part of your maintenance routine.
What Exactly Is Tire Rotation and Balance?
Tire rotation is actually quite a simple process. It involves moving your tires from one area of your car to another. Typical tire rotation follows the same pattern: with front-wheel-drive cars, front tires typically get shifted straight back, while the rear tires are moved to opposite sides on the front. The opposite applies for rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive vehicles, in which the rear tires are moved straight forward, while the front wheels are moved to opposite sides of the rear.
You don’t need to rotate your tires excessively – the recommended interval is 5,000 to 8,000 miles – but requesting a tire rotation in addition to your regular oil changes is a safe habit to get into. If you notice a decrease in tire pressure or abnormal vibrations when you steer, these could be indicators that your tires are ready to relocate. Thankfully, you can schedule your service appointment with us at any time.
Okay, I Know What Tire Rotation Is… But Why Is It Important?
So just why is it so crucial for your vehicle to play musical tires like this? Tire rotation prevents uneven tire wear caused by the front of your car being heavier than the rear. By balancing the tread on your tires, you can enjoy a smoother ride without any vibrations. Additionally, this provides better traction on slippery or narrow roads, improving your overall safety while driving.
On the other hand, an uneven tread on your tires can lead to faster wear and deflation, ultimately reducing fuel efficiency. That’s why tire rotation is vital not only for preserving the health of your tires but also for your engine’s well-being. If the air pressure in your tires is consistently measuring low, it may be time to explore our Tire Finder.
So, Then What’s Tire Balancing?
When balancing, mechanics use a machine to confirm that the weight of the tire and wheel are balanced. If imbalanced, they attach small lead weights to the rim of the wheel until a perfect equilibrium is reached.
Balancing your tires is directly tied to rotating them, as both processes follow the same recommended intervals. If you do decide to rotate and balance your tires with every oil change, many garages will offer them as a complimentary add-on.
Find Your Perfect Balance Today
Stop into Northpointe today, where we’re working around the clock to provide you with the highest level of service possible. Our vast inventory is filled with a ride range of new and used vehicles, from the new Ram 1500 to the 2024 Jeep Compass. We’re all about giving you a wide array of choices here at Northpointe. After all, the key to life is finding your perfect balance.
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