How to Do a Tire Rotation Yourself

Tire rotations are a critical part of routine auto maintenance. They help the tread wear more evenly, which plays an important role not just in tire longevity but in vehicle performance and safety. Keep your vehicle in peak condition on the roads of Chicago, New Lenox, and beyond by prioritizing tire rotations. Below, our service experts at Sutton Ford tell you to do a tire rotation yourself.

How to Do a Tire Rotation at Home

Before you get started, take the time to gather the tools you’ll need: a lug nut wrench, a car jack, and a set of car jack stands. Now you’re ready to begin; here’s how to do a tire rotation step by step:

1. Engage the parking brake for additional safety and peace of mind as you work.
2. Loosen the lug nuts on each wheel, but don’t take them completely off.
3. Use the jack to raise one wheel and slide the jack stand under it.
4. Take the tires off.
5. Check for adequate tire pressure and fill tires with air as needed. Then you can rotate them based on your preferred rotation pattern. Just position the tire on the wheel mount and screw the lug nuts on by hand as far as they will go.
6. Lower the car from the jack stands and finish tightening the lug nuts. We suggest working diagonally from one lug nut to another in a star pattern, as this helps guarantee all of them are tightened evenly and prevents damage to the brake rotors.

Schedule a Tire Rotation at Sutton Ford Today

At Sutton Ford, we’d be more than happy to perform your tire rotation for you. Schedule an appointment online or contact us directly. Don’t miss our latest service specials for ways to save on your tire rotation, and check out our service tips for keeping your vehicle running its best between visits.

Frequently Asked Questions