Best Tire Rotation Strategy: Keeping the Better Tires on the Rear
Rotating your tires is a crucial part of maintaining your vehicle's performance and safety. But when it comes to tire positioning, should you keep the better tires on the front or the back? Let's explore the reasoning behind this and how modern tires can enhance your driving experience.
Historical Context and Tire Technology
When I learned to drive in the early 1970s, radial tires were just beginning to replace crossply bias belted tires. Radials were not only more comfortable and quieter but also more expensive, yet they were designed to last twice as long. In those days, it was common for drivers to replace tires in pairs because the full set could be quite costly. Educational tools like safety films highlighted the importance of fitting radials to the rear of the vehicle to prevent potential oversteer in front-wheel drive cars on wet roads.
Modern Tire Rotation Recommendations
Nowadays, most modern tire experts recommend keeping the better tires on the rear axle for a variety of reasons:
Traction
Tires on the rear provide stability and help prevent oversteer, which is a dangerous condition where the rear of the vehicle slides out. By keeping better tires in the back, you maintain better traction and control, especially in adverse weather conditions. Oversteer can be particularly problematic in slippery conditions and can compromise the safety of both the driver and passengers.
Hydroplaning
In wet conditions, the rear tires with better tread are vital in reducing the risk of hydroplaning. This occurs when water builds up between the tires and the road, causing the vehicle to lose traction. With better grip from the rear tires, the risk of hydroplaning is significantly reduced, ensuring a smoother and safer ride in wet weather.
Handling Predictability
Having better tires in the rear also contributes to more predictable handling. In slippery conditions, poor handling can lead to a loss of control, which can be extremely dangerous. By ensuring that the rear tires have more tread than the front, you reduce the likelihood of losing control during challenging driving scenarios.
Other Considerations for Tire Rotation
When it comes to tire rotation, it's important to note that generally, new tires should go on the front, as they take the majority of the load from the engine. Rear tires, which are not driven, serve as 'followers' and should retain their tread depth until the front tires are ready to be rotated. Additionally, you should avoid mixing front and back tires, and avoid mixing winter and summer tires or cross ply and radial tires within the same axle.
If your rear profiles are larger than the front, it can simplify the process of changing tires. Typically, only a pair needs to be changed at once to maintain tire uniformity and balance.
In Summary
By keeping the better tires on the rear axle, you enhance safety and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. This strategy is especially important for vehicles with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Proper tire rotation can not only improve your driving experience but also contribute to the longevity and safety of your vehicle.