I've made it a habit of looking at the tread a few times a year. In between that, the dealer that performs the LOF on my cars typically checks them or as a matter of "business practice" recommends they be rotated.
Going by the book may be a simple way of remembering or keeping track but I just don't believe it equates to real world. We all experience too many variables for ne size fits all and tires come in different compounds for wear and tire life.
Where we live, how we drive, how well monitor air pressure, alignment issues, how the roads are where we live and drive, how many miles a year....
I do believe it's really as simple just looking at the tire wear and tread depth, even or uneven etc.... 5000 to 7000 miles maybe ? That's once a year for me.
Originally Posted by Paul_Siu
Ok,
I decided to check the tire sites, reasoning that tire manufacturer probably has restriction on tire rotation in regards to warranty. I check the Goodyear site, and they said they recommend every 3,000 to 6,000 miles. Michelin's site said 6,000 to 8,000. Not sure why there is such a difference. Maybe 5,000 miles is not so far fetch after all.
Alternate question, I notice that the manual often say 5,000 miles or every 6 months. Let's say you drive less than 1,000 miles a year (suppose you are retired or the car is only use for weekends). Do you actually rotate the tire when at 6 months mark even though you may have driven only 500 miles? I was curious about the rationale of that recommendation.
Paul
No. Miles would be the measure.
If tires get old, even if not driven many miles, rubber and side walls deteriorate and it's an important safety issue so just realize it's best to visually inspect them a few times a year and keep tabs on them or ask a professional if in doubt.
Originally Posted by Propflux01
Every 5k for me, since i have it jacked up for oil change anyhow
THIS ^ Smart and simple.