Rotate Car Tires: Save Money on Gas [VIDEO]

This is a guest post by Ashyia Hill. You can also write about saving money on your car.

When we buy a car we invest a pretty good chunk of change and we expect it to run for quite some time in return for our investment. Of course, we know that in exchange for the car running well for us, we have to take care of it and do basic things like put gas in the car, wash the car, and make sure your tires are rotated. Sounds simple enough, right? When your tank is empty, you put gas in it so it will run. When your car is dirty, you wash it. But what about rotating your tires? Not quite as simple as knowing when to wash or fill up your car.

How often should I be rotating my tires to save the most money?

There is a lot of information out there about when the proper time is to rotate the tires on your vehicle and it can get confusing depending on who you ask. Here are a few reminders that could save you (literally) thousands of dollars over the lifetime of your car.

Why do I need to rotate my tires to maintain my car?

The short answer is it helps keep you and everyone that rides in your vehicle safe. When you have rotated your tires at regularly scheduled intervals, it will make your braking more even and effective. You will also notice that your handling is more balanced and you can enjoy a smoother ride, increased traction, and (who doesn't love this one?!) better gas mileage. Along with saving money on gas, you will also increase the life of your tires and won't have to replace them nearly as often. Because front and rear tires wear differently, no matter how good of a driver you are, rotating them is a quick way to equalize the tread wear and keep money in your pocket.

When do I need to rotate my tires to not waste money?

And the answer is... check your manufacturer's manual. Although that answer might seem like a cop out, the owner's manual is writing with exact specifications for your car and is the best way to find out an answer that will make the most sense for you. That being said, between 5,000-10,000 miles is generally the rule on when to rotate your tires. If you tend to drive a little "harder" it would be best to err closer to the 5,000 mile mark and if you generally bring your car out for a drive only after church on Sundays, closer to 10,000 is where you want to be. Most of us will be fine rotating our tires between the 6,000-8,000 miles, or an easy way to remember it is having the tires changed every other oil change.

DIY: How to Change A Tire

If you consider yourself pretty knowledgeable about cars and would consider rotating your tires yourself, it can be done. Make sure you go by the book and have the right tools. If rotating tires is a little above your pay grade, most places offer a quick and affordable option of having it done while you wait for an oil change or some other car maintenance. Either option you choose, rotating your tires at regular intervals is a must in making sure that you and your friends are safe on the road.

Did you know rotating your tires could save you money on gas?

This guest blog post was written by Freedom Rims, a Responsible Military Lender since 1983. Freedom Rims offers military financing for a variety of rims and tires including Kasino Rims, Miror Rims, and Prova Rims throughout the USA.

If you'd also like to contribute, you can submit a guest post.