How often should I rotate my tires?

Every 5,000–8,000 miles is a good rule, or at every oil change. Regular rotation can add thousands of miles to a set of tires.

Can I rotate directional tires the same way?

No. Directional tires must stay on the same side of the car (front-to-back only). Look for an arrow on the sidewall showing the rotation direction.

Home › DIY Guides › How to Rotate Your Tires at Home

Tires · Beginner · 30–45 minutes · Updated June 1, 2026

Rotating your tires every 5,000–8,000 miles evens out wear so all four last longer and grip more evenly. It pairs perfectly with an oil change.

Use the correct rotation pattern for your drivetrain, and always torque the lug nuts to spec when you're done.

Loosen all lug nuts
On the ground, crack each wheel's lug nuts loose about a quarter turn before lifting.
Lift the car
Raise the car and support it securely on jack stands. Chock the wheels still on the ground.
Choose the right pattern
For front-wheel drive: move the fronts straight back, and cross the rears to the front. For rear-wheel drive: move the rears straight forward, and cross the fronts to the rear.
Swap the tires
Move each tire to its new position following the pattern. Keep track so you don't mix them up.
Hand-tighten, then lower
Thread the lug nuts on by hand and snug them, then lower the car back to the ground.
Torque to spec
Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star (criss-cross) pattern to your manufacturer's spec.

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How often should I rotate my tires?: Every 5,000–8,000 miles is a good rule, or at every oil change. Regular rotation can add thousands of miles to a set of tires.
Can I rotate directional tires the same way?: No. Directional tires must stay on the same side of the car (front-to-back only). Look for an arrow on the sidewall showing the rotation direction.