Tire rotation involves changing the position of tires on a vehicle to ensure even wear. Irregular wear patterns can develop if tires remain in the same position for extended periods, potentially shortening their lifespan and affecting vehicle handling. For example, front tires on a front-wheel-drive vehicle typically wear faster on the edges due to steering and carrying more of the engine’s weight.
Regular rotation contributes to optimized tire performance, extending the time before replacements are necessary. This practice promotes balanced handling and traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions, thereby enhancing overall driving safety. Historically, tire rotation emerged as a standard maintenance procedure with the increasing prevalence of radial tires, which exhibit specific wear characteristics.