Regularly rotating and balancing your tyres will help ensure they wear evenly, leading to a smoother ride, better vehicle performance and improved braking and handling.

What is a tyre rotation?

Each tyre position on a vehicle performs different functions and is subject to different forces and loads. Because of this, they tend to have different wear rates and patterns. Tyre rotation involves physically changing the position of each tyre on the vehicle so they wear more evenly - usually, this involves swapping the front and back set of tyres.

The importance of tyre rotation

Tyre rotation is essential to keep your tyres in good condition. Regular rotation of your tyres, combined with regular inflation pressure checks and wheel alignments, will help ensure they wear evenly, extending their lifespan. Many vehicle manufacturers now recommend replacing tyres as a set of four. Regular rotations will assist in helping to ensure even wear across all four tyres so you aren’t required to replace tyres which are not yet worn out. Your tyre tread is what gives your vehicle traction, especially when turning corners or braking. A tyre worn evenly will assist in better handling, braking and less noise when compared to a tyre with irregular wear.

How often do you need to rotate your tyres?

Tyres should be rotated regularly - we recommend that you rotate them every 10,000kms. Four-wheel drive tyres with traction or off-road patterns may need more frequent rotations. Your owner’s manual will include rotation recommendations from your vehicle manufacturer on both frequency and pattern. Otherwise, a good rule of thumb is to rotate them every time you change your engine oil.

Tyre rotation patterns

When rotating your tyres, generally it’s okay to swap your front tyres with your back tyres on the same side. You can also switch your left back tyre with your right front tyre, and your right back tyre with your front left tyre (in a diagonal pattern).

There are however several rotation patterns - the best pattern for your vehicle depends on several things, including the type of vehicle you drive (front, rear, all-wheel or four-wheel drive), whether your tyres are directional or non-directional, whether your tyres are the same size, and what type of spare tyre you have. If unsure, check your owner’s manual.

How to rotate your tyres

We recommend you have a mechanic professionally rotate your tyres. While you can rotate your tyres at home, you’ll need specialist tools and a lot of space. It is recommended to have your tyres balanced at the same time, so ask your mechanic to rebalance each tyre. Balanced tyres wear more evenly and provide a smoother ride.

The cost of tyre rotation 

While the cost of a tyre rotation will vary from mechanic to mechanic, the average cost for a tyre rotation and rebalance is around $60.

Need help?

Our team of tyre experts is ready to assist you in finding the perfect tyres for your vehicle. Give us a call today at 13 23 81 to receive personalised guidance and recommendations.

Alternatively, you can visit our website to locate the nearest store and explore our wide range of tyres.