How Often Should You Rotate Your Tires?

Tire Change

How often should you rotate your tires? Experts often recommend getting a tire rotation with each oil change, so every 5,000 miles to 7,500 miles. However, when to rotate tires specifically depends on your driving habits and the type of drivetrain you have, among other factors, so it’s good practice to consult your owner’s manual. Looking for more tips on how many miles to rotate tires? Check out this guide from Tonkin Hillsboro Ford, your trusted source for automotive service in the Beaverton area!

Tire Rotations for FWD and RWD


Vehicles with front-wheel drive deliver power to the front tires, whereas models with rear-wheel drive send power to the rear wheels. It’s important to note that the set of tires receiving the most engine power will wear faster than the others, which is why tire rotations are so important, for even wear distribution. Keep the following tire rotation tips in mind:

  • Check your owner’s manual for exact mileage, but vehicles with front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive should get a tire rotation every 5,000 miles to 7,500 miles.
  • Follow these guidelines for a DIY tire rotation on vehicles with front-wheel drive: Flip sides when moving rear tires, meaning the rear right tire will go on the front left, and the rear left tire will go on the front right. However, the front tires should remain on the same side when moved to the rear.
  • Follow these guidelines for a DIY tire rotation on vehicles with rear-wheel drive: Invert the above process, meaning switch sides when moving the front tires to the back, but the rear tires should remain on the same side when moved to the front.
  • Additional factors like off-roading, road conditions, and more influence how often you need to rotate your tires. Connect with the Tonkin Hillsboro Ford service experts for advice.

Tire Rotations for AWD

When it comes to how many miles to rotate tires on an AWD model, it’s important to note that there is a different standard than with front-wheel or rear-wheel drive. The standard timeline ranges from 3,000 miles to 5,000 miles, but every tire wears differently and at different speeds, so your owner’s manual is your best bet for specifics.

Why Rotate Tires?

Why is it important to rotate your tires? It extends the life of your tires, for one, but Aloha drivers will also enjoy the following benefits with regular tire rotations:

  • Improved traction on slippery roads
  • Less noise on the road
  • Relieves unnecessary drivetrain stress

When you include tire rotations as part of your routine maintenance, you will be better prepared for hazardous weather or difficult road conditions. Even with frequent tire rotations, though, there will come a time when replacements are necessary. Our parts department can set you up with the proper tires for your vehicle!

Get Tire Advice From Tonkin Hillsboro Ford!

Drivers from Tigard and beyond turn to Tonkin Hillsboro Ford for tire advice and tire service! Schedule an appointment with us today, or get in touch with any questions! Our certified technicians are always standing by to help answer your questions and solve your problems.