How to Rotate Tires: Complete Guide for Long-Lasting Tread

1. Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)

• Move front tires straight back.

• Move rear tires to opposite front corners (criss-cross).

2. Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)

• Move rear tires straight forward.

• Move front tires to opposite rear corners.

3. All-Wheel Drive (AWD) or 4WD

• Use an X-pattern: swap front left with rear right, and front right with rear left. For vehicles with unique tire sizes or specs, review  how to read tire size to ensure compatibility.

Note: For directional tires or asymmetric tread, rotate front to rear only, keeping tires on the same side.

Rotate every 8,000–10,000 km, or every 6 months, whichever comes first. Afterward, check pressure using a digital inflator like the  Woowind LP1 , known for its compact design and precision. For AWD/4WD vehicles, consider rotating more frequently: every 5,000–8,000 km to prevent drivetrain stress.

If your vehicle shows uneven wear or you've hit potholes recently, consider rotating sooner and getting an alignment check.

• Directional or asymmetric tires must stay on the same side; do not criss-cross them.

• Include the full-size spare if it matches the other tires and is part of the rotation plan.

• Check tread depth: Don't mix new and old tires if the difference is more than 4mm. If you need consistent pressure support across all tires, check out our  electric air pump options .

• Inspect for irregular wear, like inner-edge bald spots—this could signal alignment or suspension issues.

• Seasonal tires (winter/summer) should be rotated as full sets, not mixed in.

• Ignoring tire type and rotation compatibility

• Forgetting to include or check the spare

• Rotating without checking air pressure

• Not logging the last rotation date

Regular rotation is easy and effective. Use tools you trust, like a torque wrench and jack stands. With consistent rotation and proper inflation, your tires stay balanced, your drives stay safe, and your wallet stays happy.