As a car owner, you must be aware of the importance of regular maintenance to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly and safely. While many car owners may overlook tyre maintenance, regular tyre rotation and balancing are crucial for the safety and longevity of your vehicle.
In this article, we will discuss why regular tyre rotation and balancing are essential and how often you should have it done.
What is Tyre Rotation?
It is the practice of moving your car tyres from one position to another. This is done to ensure that each tyre wears evenly and extends its lifespan. Tyres wear differently depending on their position on the car, and thus, rotating them can help distribute the wear evenly.
Why is Tyre Rotation Important?
Even tyre wear is crucial for optimum performance and safety. Those that wear unevenly can cause uneven handling and can lead to dangerous situations on the road. For example, if your front tyres are not rotated, they can wear out more quickly, causing the car to pull to one side, and this can lead to an accident.
Moreover, regular tyre rotation can save you money in the long run. They may last longer, which means you won’t have to replace them as often. This can translate to significant savings in the long run.
What is Tyre Balancing?
It is the process of ensuring that the weight of the tyre and wheel assembly is distributed evenly around the axle. This is done by placing small weights on the wheel to balance it out. This is essential to ensure that your car runs smoothly and reduces the risk of vibration and tyre wear.
Why is Tyre Balancing Important?
Unbalanced tyres can cause vibrations that can be felt in the steering wheel or throughout the car. This can lead to discomfort while driving and, in some cases, cause damage to the suspension system. The process may help eliminate these vibrations and ensure a smooth and comfortable ride.
Moreover, unbalanced tyres can cause uneven tyre wear, reducing their lifespan. Regular tyre balancing can help ensure that the weight of the tyre and wheel assembly is distributed evenly, reducing the risk of accidents.
How Often Should You Rotate and Balance Your Tyres?
The frequency of tyre rotation and balancing depends on several factors, including the type of vehicle, tyre type, driving conditions and driving habits. As a general rule, it is recommended to have your tyres rotated every 5,000 to 7,000 miles or every six months, whichever comes first.
For tyre balancing, it is recommended to have it done every time you have your tyres rotated or if you feel any vibrations while driving. If you frequently drive on rough roads or hit potholes, you may need to have them balanced more often.
It is essential to note that not all tyres are created equal. Some may require more frequent rotation and balancing than others. Always consult your vehicle owner’s manual to determine the recommended rotation and balancing schedule for your car.
Conclusion
Regular tyre rotation and balancing are essential for the safety, performance, and longevity of your vehicle. Tyres that wear evenly and are balanced reduce the risk of accidents and discomfort while driving and reduce the frequency of tyre replacements. Therefore, it is important to have your tyres rotated and balanced regularly, as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
By doing so, you can ensure a smooth and safe driving experience while saving money in the long run.
If you are looking for an auto shop that has a good tyre supply in Belfast, look no further than our services here at East Coast Coatings. We specialise in alloy wheel refurbishment and powder coating, and we pride ourselves on putting out the highest quality work at the most competitive prices. Visit our nearest branch today, and let us give your car the East Coast Coatings treatment that it deserves!