How Often Should You Rotate Your Tires?

When driving around Sault Ste. Marie, your tires are going encounter the usual wear and tear common on most roadways. As a result, many drivers frequently ask us, “How many kilometres to rotate tires?”

On average, most tire rotations occur between 8,050-13,000 kilometres. While this is a good ground rule, multiple factors often impact when to rotate tires. Below, the Mercedes-Benz of Sudbury service centre team will discuss the proper tire rotation schedules for every available drivetrain.

Rotating Tires on FWD and RWD Vehicles

When answering, “How often should you rotate your tires?” an important aspect to consider is your vehicle’s drivetrain. Where the engine power is sent determines whether your car has front-wheel or rear-wheel drive.

On FWD-drive cars, it’s sent to the front tires, while rear-wheel drive models have the power directed towards the rear tires. Whichever tires are getting the bulk of your engine power will wear out faster. If you drive a vehicle with either of these drivetrains, keep the following tips in mind about when to rotate tires:

• On rear-wheel and front-wheel drive vehicles, tire rotation must be performed every 8,050-11,000 kilometres. Make sure to consult your owner’s manual for an exact interval. 
• When performing an FWD tire rotation, remember to flip sides when moving the rear tires. For instance, the rear right tires will go on the front left. However, when moving the front tires to the back, keep them on the same side.
• When rotating tires on a rear-wheel drive vehicle, invert the above process. Flip sides when moving the front tires to the back, but keep your rear tires on the same side when moving them forward.
• How often should you rotate your tires if you go off-roading outside of Timmins? In that case, you might have to undertake tire rotations more frequently.

AWD Tire Rotation Tips

For those with an all-wheel drive (AWD) Mercedes-Benz vehicle, when to rotate your tires will be different compared to the other two drivetrains. Since power from your engine will be sent to every tire on an AWD drivetrain, rotation needs to be done in a specific manner and at closer intervals.

If you drive an all-wheel drive vehicle around North Bay, you can expect to rotate the tires every 5,000-8,050 kilometres. Remember the following tips when rotating your tires at home:

1. The left rear goes to the right front spot.
2. The right rear goes to the left front spot.
3. The right front goes to the left rear spot.
4. The left front goes to the right rear spot.

Why Rotate Tires?

Now that you know “How many kilometres to rotate tires,” it’s important to understand why tire rotation is essential. It’s often done to extend the life of your tires, but regular tire rotation can provide the following benefits:

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

If you want to be better prepared for hazardous weather around Sault Ste. Marie, remember to make tire rotations part of your maintenance plan. Even with proper care, you’ll have to replace them at one point or another—a service our service staff and parts team can complete for you. 

Get Your Tire Advice From Mercedes-Benz of Sudbury

Now that you’ve learned about how many kilometres to rotate tires, it’s time to keep your tires in great shape with Mercedes-Benz of Sudbury. When making your next appointment, check out our service specials to see how much you can save.

You can also order parts for your Mercedes-Benz model online or over the phone at 705-522-7777 Keep your tires in great condition around Timmins with Mercedes-Benz of Sudbury!