Keeping your tires in top condition is essential for safe driving, better handling, and optimal fuel efficiency. Routine tire rotation and alignment are two simple yet impactful services that can extend the life of your tires, improve vehicle performance, and ultimately save you money. Let’s take a closer look at how tire rotation and alignment work, why they’re important, and how they benefit your vehicle.
What Is Tire Rotation?
Tire rotation involves moving the tires to different positions on the vehicle – typically, switching the front tires with the rear ones. This practice helps ensure that all tires wear evenly. Since the front and rear tires experience different levels of stress and pressure (especially in front-wheel-drive vehicles), rotating them regularly helps even out the wear and tear.
Benefits of Tire Rotation:
Extended Tire Life: By distributing the wear evenly, tire rotation can help each tire last longer, maximizing the investment you made in your tires.
Improved Handling: Uneven tire wear can cause handling issues, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Rotated tires provide better traction and stability on the road.
Increased Fuel Efficiency: Worn or uneven tires create more resistance, which can lead to decreased fuel efficiency. Properly rotated tires reduce resistance, helping your vehicle operate more efficiently.
What Is Tire Alignment?
Tire alignment, or wheel alignment, involves adjusting the angles of the wheels to ensure they are set to the manufacturer’s specifications. This adjustment ensures that the tires are parallel to each other and properly oriented in relation to the road. Alignment issues can occur over time, especially after hitting a curb, pothole, or experiencing suspension problems.
Signs Your Vehicle Needs an Alignment:
Your car pulls to one side while driving straight.
Uneven or rapid tire wear.
Steering wheel is off-center or vibrates
Benefits of Proper Alignment:
Reduced Tire Wear: When wheels are aligned, tires wear more evenly, which can significantly extend their life and help you avoid costly replacements.
Enhanced Driving Stability: Properly aligned wheels improve your vehicle’s stability, making it easier and safer to handle, especially at high speeds or in wet conditions.
Better Fuel Economy: Misaligned wheels cause uneven drag, making the engine work harder. An aligned vehicle experiences less resistance and, as a result, better fuel efficiency.
How Often Should You Schedule Tire Rotation and Alignment?
As a general rule, tire rotation should be done every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, though it’s always best to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or ask your mechanic for specific recommendations. Tire alignment, on the other hand, may not need to be done as frequently. Many drivers opt for an alignment check once or twice a year, or whenever they notice signs of misalignment. Routine maintenance visits, like oil changes, are an excellent time to get both your tire rotation and alignment checked.
The Harris Automotive Advantage: Tire Rotation and Alignment Services
At Harris Automotive, we understand the importance of well-maintained tires for both performance and safety. Our technicians can help keep your tires in top shape with comprehensive tire rotation and alignment services. As a family-owned business with locations in Westerville and Blacklick, we are committed to providing honest, reliable service to keep our customers safe on the road.
Schedule Your Tire Rotation and Alignment with Harris Automotive Today!
Keeping up with routine tire rotation and alignment is a small investment that pays off in the long run. Whether you’re looking to extend the life of your tires, improve handling, or boost fuel efficiency, our team at Harris Automotive is here to help. Schedule your appointment today at our Westerville or Blacklick location and experience the difference our dedicated, customer-first service can make for your vehicle!
