How to Rotate Tires on A Rear Wheel Drive Car

It is important to rotate your tires so that the tires wear evenly and will actually save you money in the long run. The most important thing about rotating your tires is to rotate them properly. Improper tire rotation can lead to excess tire wear and can create an unsafe driving condition if the integrity of the tire becomes compromised. Follow these steps to properly rotate the tires on a rear wheel drive vehicle.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. The first step is to check your owners manual to make sure that there isn't a specified manufacturers rotation pattern. There are two common rotation patterns and should only be done if all four tires on the vehicle are the same size. This How-to will outline how to rotate with the most common rotation.

2. Park the car on a level surface that is free of gravel or dirt. Raise the vehicle with a car jack rated high enough to support the weight of the vehicle. Place one jack stand near the front driver's side tire with the support of the vehicle's frame. Place another jack stand near the rear driver's side tire with the support of the vehicle's frame. Do the same with the passenger side of the vehicle. At this point the entire vehicle should be suspended in the air.

3. Remove the front driver's side tire. Remove the rear driver's side tire and place it on the front driver's side. Use a star pattern to tighten down the lug nuts.

4. Take the tire that was removed from the front driver's side and place it on the rear passenger side. Tighten down the lug nuts using a star pattern.

5. Take the rear passenger side tire and place it on the front passenger side. Use a star pattern to tighten the lug nuts.

6. Take the front passenger side tire and place it on the rear driver's side. Use a star pattern to tighten down the lug nuts. At this point all of the tires should now have a new axle. If you have any tires left, you have missed one or more steps.

7. Place a jack under under the vehicle near one jack stand. Raise the jack until the vehicle is slightly above the jack stand, letting pressure off the stand. Remove the stand and lower the vehicle one tire at a time.

Tips & Warnings

• It is recommended to have a certified technician rotate the tires on your vehicle. This is a very dangerous do-it-your-self and could cause great injury or death if done improperly.