How to Rotate Tires on a VW Jetta

The VW Jetta is a popular car for first-time buyers and young families. It's roomy and stylish for a small sedan. To maintain even tire wear and give yourself the smoothest ride in a Jetta, you should rotate the tires every 5,000 miles. This task is best accomplished on a hydraulic lift, but you can rotate the tires using four jack stands.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Four jack stands
• Lug nut wrench

1. Park the car on a flat surface and loosen the lug nuts on each of the tires with a lug nut wrench.

2. Place a piece of wood behind the back tires to keep the car from rolling while you jack up the front of the car. Put two jacks under the front of the vehicle, one on each side.

3. Lift the rear up on another two jack stands, leaving just enough room to take off the tires.

4. Use an "X" pattern to rotate the tires. Move the passenger side rear tire to the front, and passenger side front to driver side rear. Switch the driver side rear tire to the front and the driver side front to passenger side rear.

5. Tighten the lug nuts by hand tight enough to hold them on while you lower the car.

6. Lower the rear first and replace the wood behind the tires. Lower the front end and then go around and tighten each lug nut to its tightest fit.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't allow anyone to go under the car while it is in the air.
• Never use bumper jacks to raise the car because it's unsafe and can damage the bumpers.
• When you rotate tires yourself, you will not get the benefit of balancing that is done in a service station.

Resources

• Craftsman jacks and stands
• Large selection of jacks