Why EV tires need to be rotated
Most standard tires will work on EVs, but they won’t maximize efficiency or quietness. That’s why several major tire manufacturers now make tires specifically for EVs. The load durability, rolling resistance, handling, and tread wear resistance on these tires are all optimized to handle EV specifications.
With use, any set of tires will wear out. For EVs, the extra weight of the battery and instant torque can lead to faster tire wear, making rotation even more essential.
Tire rotation allows your tires to wear at similar speeds. Even tire wear contributes to a smoother, safer ride. Tire rotation is also an easy way to extend the life of your tires so you can avoid replacing them as often.
How to rotate EV tires
Tires can’t be rotated any old way. An experienced EV technician will advise you on the recommended rotation pattern, which depends on the type of tread and vehicle you have.
Conventional treads are reversible and found on all kinds of tires. Conventional tires should be rotated in an X pattern (switching the front left tire with the back right tire).
Directional tires have treads that only roll in one direction. In this that case, a front tire should only be swapped with a rear tire from the same side. Asymmetrical tires should also be rotated from front -to -rear back because they have an inside and an outside.
Some EVs have different-sized tires for the front and rear axles, like the Tesla Model X. In this that case, tires can only be moved from left to right, not front to back.
Once your mechanic determines which pattern you need, they’ll lift your vehicle with a hoist or jack and loosen each tire. They’ll then will inspect the tires for wear and then move them into their new positions. Once the your car is back on the ground, the mechanic will fully tighten the lug nuts to secure the tires.
When to rotate EV tires
Those who drive gas-powered cars often combine tire rotations with oil changes to remember the schedule. EVs, however, don’t have a specific timeline for this task, so it’s recommended every 8,000 km to 10,000 km or once the tread depth difference between tires reaches two 2 mm.
Your tire manufacturer and owner’s manual will have more information on when to schedule a rotation.
Preventing tire wear
Aside from regular tire rotations, you can maintain your EV’s tires by:
- Checking/adjusting air pressure
- Measuring tread depth
- Doing a visual assessment of your tires once or twice per month
- Avoiding heavy braking
- Accelerating gently
- Having your tires balanced and wheels aligned at least once per year.
To have your tires rotated, wheels aligned, or tires balanced by an experienced EV technician, visit a NexDrive service centre.