How to Rotate Your Tires

Rotating your tires every 5,000–7,500 miles evens out wear between front and rear, so the set lasts longer and the car handles predictably.

DifficultyModerate

Time45–60 min

DIY cost$0

Pro would charge$25–$60

Safety first

Only work on flat, solid ground with the parking brake on, and never put any part of your body under a car on a jack alone.
Torque lug nuts to spec; loose wheels can come off while driving.

Pick the pattern
Labeled diagram: Pick the pattern. Tap to enlarge.
Front-wheel drive: fronts go straight back, rears cross to the front. Rear- or all-wheel drive: rears go straight forward, fronts cross to the rear. Directional tires: swap front and back on the same side only.
Loosen the lug nuts
With the car on the ground, break each lug nut loose a half turn counterclockwise.
Lift and support
Jack the car at the factory lift points and set it on jack stands, one side or one end at a time, or all four corners if you have four stands.
Move the wheels
Remove the wheels and move them to their new positions following your pattern.
Snug, lower and torque
Thread the lug nuts by hand, snug them in a star pattern, lower the car, then torque each nut in a star pattern to spec (typically 80–100 ft-lb for cars; check your manual).
Set pressures and recheck
Set tire pressures to the numbers on the driver's door sticker, and re-torque the lug nuts after 50–100 miles.

Go to a tire shop if you see uneven wear on one edge, bulges or cords showing; that needs an alignment or new tires.

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