Tire Rotation Calculator

Calculate when your tires need rotation and get the correct rotation pattern for your vehicle. Track rotation schedule to extend tire life and ensure even wear.

Your vehicle's current odometer reading

Mileage when tires were last rotated (0 if never)

Check owner's manual (typically 5,000-8,000 miles)

Tire Rotation Scheduling:\n\nMiles Since Rotation = Current Mileage - Last Rotation Mileage\nNext Rotation Due = Last Rotation Mileage + Rotation Interval\nMiles Until Rotation = Next Rotation Due - Current Mileage\n\nRotation Patterns:\n• FWD: Forward Cross (rear straight forward, front cross back)\n• RWD: Rearward Cross (front straight back, rear cross forward)\n• AWD/4WD: X-Pattern (all cross diagonally)\n• Directional: Front-to-Back same side\n• Staggered: Side-to-Side only
Example:\nCurrent Mileage: 45,000 miles\nLast Rotation: 38,000 miles\nInterval: 6,000 miles\n\nMiles Since Rotation: 45,000 - 38,000 = 7,000 miles\nNext Due: 38,000 + 6,000 = 44,000 miles\nStatus: OVERDUE by 1,000 miles\n\nVehicle: FWD with standard tires\nPattern: Forward Cross\n• Rear Left -> Left Front\n• Rear Right -> Right Front\n• Left Front -> Rear Right\n• Right Front -> Rear Left

How often should I rotate my tires?

Most manufacturers recommend rotating tires every 5,000-8,000 miles or every 6 months, whichever comes first. Regular rotation ensures even tread wear, extending tire life by 20-30%. Check your owner's manual for specific recommendations. Performance tires may need rotation every 3,000-5,000 miles. AWD vehicles require more frequent rotation (every 3,000-5,000 miles) due to power distribution to all wheels.

What happens if I don't rotate my tires?

Uneven tire wear reduces tire life by up to 50%, costs $400-800 in premature replacement. Front tires wear faster (especially on FWD) on outer edges due to steering/braking. Rear tires wear center from acceleration. Uneven wear causes: poor handling, longer stopping distances, vibration, increased puncture risk, hydroplaning risk. Eventually tires must all be replaced instead of just damaged ones.

What tire rotation pattern should I use?

FWD (most common): Forward cross - rear tires move straight forward, front tires cross to opposite rear. RWD/4WD: X-pattern (cross all 4) or rearward cross. AWD: X-pattern or side-to-side (prevents drivetrain issues). Directional tires: front-to-back only (same side). Staggered sizes (different front/rear): side-to-side only per axle. Always check owner's manual first.

Can I rotate tires myself or should I go to a shop?

DIY is possible but requires: jack, jack stands (NEVER just a jack), torque wrench (80-100 ft-lbs for lug nuts), 1-2 hours. Shop rotation costs $20-50, often free with oil change. Benefits of shop: TPMS reset, alignment check, brake inspection, proper torque, safety. DIY saves money but risks: improper torque (wheel falling off), cross-threading, injury. For directional/staggered tires, shop recommended (may need remounting).

How do I track when my tires need rotation?

Methods: 1) Mileage - record rotation at each service, plan next at +5,000-7,000 miles. 2) Time - set 6-month reminder (phone/calendar). 3) Oil changes - rotate every other oil change (if oil every 3,000-5,000 miles). 4) Seasonal - rotate when switching winter/summer tires. 5) Inspection - measure tread depth; rotate if difference >2/32" between tires. Keep log in vehicle or use maintenance tracking app.

Do all-wheel drive vehicles need more frequent tire rotation?

Yes! AWD systems are sensitive to tire diameter differences. Uneven wear (even 2/32" difference) can damage transfer case/differential, causing $1,000-3,000 repairs. Rotate AWD tires every 3,000-5,000 miles. Some AWD (Subaru, Audi) void warranties if rotation neglected. Always replace all 4 tires together on AWD - never just 2. Check tread depth regularly; keep all tires within 2/32" of each other.

Should I rotate tires if they have uneven wear already?

Depends on severity. Minor uneven wear (1-2/32" difference): yes, rotate to prevent worsening and promote even wear going forward. Severe wear (cupping, scalloping, bald spots, 3/32"+ difference): rotation won't fix it - indicates alignment, suspension, or pressure issues. Fix underlying problem first, may need to replace worn tires. After rotation, if vibration/noise occurs, worn tire pattern may not adapt to new position - replace affected tires.