Car-Mart of Siloam Springs Co-Manager with hand on car door

As the Wheels Turn

Mandi Lopez-Brown Talks About the Importance of Tire Rotation and Care of your Tires


“Tires are like shoes,” says Mandi Lopez-Brown, General Manager at Car-Mart of Rogers North, Arkansas. “The more you drive your vehicle, the more your tires will experience wear and tear,” she continues. “Just as you will need new shoes, you will need new tires. Don’t ignore them.”

According to car expert Mandi, it is best to rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles.

But what exactly does that mean? Tire rotation is moving the wheels and tires from one position to another, to ensure even tire wear.

So, why is this important?

Tires on the front axle need to accomplish different things than the tires on the rear axle. “As you drive your vehicle, each wheel wears differently. You may notice this on your shoes – one shoe may wear on the side or the back depending on how you walk,” remarks Mandi. “It’s important to maintain an even amount of treadwear on all four tires.”

Mandi notes five reasons to rotate your tires:

  • Extended tire life
  • Increased safety
  • Better gas mileage
  • Smoother ride
  • Enhanced vehicle performance

Close-up image of car wheel with black rubber tire

In addition, many tire mileage warranties require rotation to keep the warranty valid on your tires. A good rule of thumb is to rotate your tires at the same time you get your oil changed whether your tires show uneven wear signs or not.

Mandi advises to check two aspects of your tires on a regular basis:

  • Keep your tires properly inflated
    • Use a tire gauge to check the pressure. Refer to your owner’s manual for the correct pressure for your vehicle.
    • Check the pressure when the tires are cold; they heat up as you drive.
  • Check the tread on your tires
    • If your tires look smooth and worn, it may be time for new tires.
    • If you place a penny head first into several tread grooves in the tire and you see the top of Lincoln’s head, your treads are worn. Time to replace your tires.

Close-Up Of Hand holding pressure gauge for car tire“Tires are a substantial investment so take care of them,” Mandi advises. “The bottom-line is don’t skip tire rotation. Your tires will stay safe and reliable much longer and will deliver better performance and handling along the way.”

Has your vehicle reached the end of its life expectancy and time for a new one? Let us put you in an affordable, quality, used vehicle – with good tires – today. Check out our inventory at one of our locations or go online at https://www.car-mart.com/cars/.

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