Tire rotation?

[oj88]

What comes next is just a personal opinion of mine.

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Tire rotation stemmed from the fact that suspension systems aren't perfect. One way or another, the subtle changes in the suspension geometry over time due to wear and tear and damage can affect how the tire contacts the pavement.... hence, can potentially lead to uneven tread wear. Not to mention that many owners takes a relaxed approach to maintaining the correct tire pressure.

But as of late, it seems that tire rotation is becoming less of a requirement if you drive mostly in MM and/or your vehicle just averages 10-12k km a year (my personal average). Two reasons why:

1. With such low mileage, the tread life will likely outlive the life of the rubber. It is common knowledge that rubber decays over time. So by the time the tread wear even reaches critical depth, the tires would've needed replacement anyway due to structural fatigue or decomposition
2. It seems that modern suspension systems have tighter fitments (bushings, ball joints) and they hold these tolerances quite longer than yesteryear's models. Suspension geometry also seems to be designed better throughout the full motion of the wheel, again, compared to older designs

But as always, there is no replacement for tire maintenance, such as:
1. Maintaining proper inflation
2. Regular inspection for cracks and other structural damage
3. You still have to check for uneven tread wear. But consider it as an indication of an underlying problem (ie. suspension wear/damage, improper inflation, etc.)
4. Having the wheel alignment checked every year or so, or after the vehicle has been subjected to a jarring bump/pothole
5. Having unusual suspension noises and 'clunks' checked immediately

This is a bit unorthodox but, in the last three vehicles that I've owned, I've sold them all with the original tires still on them (all averaging 6-7 years old with 50-60k km on the odo). None of them ever had a tire rotation. Though, at point of sale, I did tell the buyer that the car will probably need new tires soon.

Just to be clear, there is NO harm in having a tires rotated. However, it may be unnecessary if you fall within the parameters I've indicated above.

My 2c worth.