The practice of moving tires from one position on a vehicle to another, following a specific pattern, ensures even wear. For example, front tires, which typically handle more of the braking and steering forces, might be moved to the rear, and vice versa, to distribute wear more uniformly across all four tires.
This periodic repositioning is vital for extending the lifespan of a set of tires, optimizing vehicle handling, and maintaining consistent braking performance. Historically, this preventative maintenance task has been recognized as a fundamental aspect of vehicle care, helping to prevent premature tire replacement and enhance overall safety.