What is the Proper Tire Rotation Pattern For My Car?

Are you aware that you should rotate your tires about every six months or 6,000 miles? If you don’t, the consequences can be serious, like a blowout on Scottsbluff roads! Fortunately, tire rotation is fairly straightforward, but not all Alliance drivers know the correct rotation pattern. Are you wondering, “What is the proper tire rotation pattern for my car?” Transwest Ford provides the answer here! You can also schedule service with our service team, and they can rotate your tires for you. 

Why Rotate Tires?

When you rotate your tires, you move them to different positions, so they have similar wear and tear over time. If you do this service task on your own, you need to know what the proper tire rotation pattern is for your type of vehicle. So, what is the proper tire rotation pattern? Find out below.

What Tire Rotation Pattern Should You Use?

There are a few different rotation patterns, and it varies by drivetrain. 

• Forward Cross: For front-wheel drive vehicles, take the front tires and bring them to the rear, and bring the rear tires forward. Place the rear left tire on the front right side and the right rear tire on the left front side. The front tires that move back can stay on the same sides.
• X-Pattern: This tire rotation pattern is similar to the one above, but you also switch sides when bringing the front tires to the rear. This tire rotation pattern is also well-suited for front-wheel drive vehicles.
• Rearward Cross: This rotation pattern is the opposite of the forward cross and is best for rear-and four-wheel drive cars. With this pattern, you bring the front tires to the rear and the rear to the front and switch sides of the front tires when you bring them back. So, the front right tire becomes the left rear tire, and the left front tire becomes the right rear tire. There is no need to switch sides for the rear tires when moving them forward.

Directional vs. Non-Directional Tires

Before you rotate your tires, you need to know if your tires are directional. Directional tires are made with a one-way pattern made specifically for either the left or right side of your car. You’ll find an arrow or triangle marking on the tire’s sidewall showing which side of the vehicle the tire is meant for. What tire rotation pattern should you use for directional tires? If you have directional tires, always swap the front right tire with the rear right tire and the front left with the rear left.

Trust Transwest Ford For Tire Care in Torrington!

Now that you know what tire rotation pattern to use, if you need help with tire care, contact our service center near Ogallala. You can schedule service online, and don’t forget to check our service specials to see if you can save money. We’re here to help and always at your service!