How often should tires be rotated as part of regular maintenance?

Tire rotation is an essential aspect of regular vehicle maintenance that helps ensure even tire wear and extends the lifespan of the tires. The recommendation to rotate tires every 3,000 to 5,000 miles is based on the fact that tires experience different levels of wear depending on their position on the vehicle and driving conditions. Front tires typically wear out faster due to steering and braking forces, while rear tires may wear more evenly but can still benefit from rotation. By following this mileage guideline, vehicle owners can help maintain balanced traction and handling, ultimately leading to a safer driving experience and better overall tire performance.

While some other intervals may seem reasonable, such as once a year or only addressing visible damage, these do not account for the ongoing wear that occurs over time. Rotating tires regularly is proactive maintenance that helps mitigate uneven wear patterns, which can lead to reduced traction, poor handling, and ultimately costly tire replacements. Additionally, rotating tires every month is excessive and unnecessary, as it may not allow sufficient time for noticeable wear to occur.