Do your tires wear out too quickly? If you’re anything like the average Jeep owner, then you want to extend the life of your tires as much as possible. Luckily, we have the perfect fix for you; a 5-tire rotation. It’s miles better than using a 4-tire cycle, and it’ll help you unleash the full potential of your Jeep.
A 5-tire rotation will allow you to use your spare tire and maximize its life. In addition, when you require the spare, constant use will ensure that it’s evenly worn out.
Table of Contents
What is a 5-Tire Jeep Rotation?
Some car tires, especially on sedans and hatchbacks, are meant to only be used when a tire blows out or requires a quick fix. They aren’t meant for long-term use. It’s different for a Jeep, though. Jeeps have spare tires that are not temporary.
You can use those tires for long periods. Such tires alter the 4-tire rotation pattern to a 5-tire rotation pattern. A 5-tire rotation is an excellent habit as it’ll help you preserve money in the long run. You can increase the lifespan of your tires by up to 20% with the 5-tire rotation pattern.
How to do a 5-Tire Rotation
There are a few different approaches to doing a 5-tire rotation, and we’ll guide you through them below.
1. Tools Needed
As the saying goes, if you have an hour to chop a tree, spend the first 45 minutes sharpening the ax. The following tools will help you in a quick and easy 5-tire rotation:
- 4 jack stands (six tons)
- Floor hydraulic jack
2. Steps to Follow
First, make sure to engage the parking brake for safety.
Next, loosen the lug nuts on each of the four wheels, but only halfway, as it’ll make it easier when it’s raised.
Then, you need to get the tires off the ground. To do that, support the axle with two jack stands after you lift the rear.
Put the jack under the rear differential (round like a pumpkin). You can do the same with the front and lift it just like you did with the rear.
You should use the spare tire to start your 5-tire rotation.
Afterward, to tighten the nuts, lower the car down. Ensure that you tighten the nuts evenly. Otherwise, it may damage the brake rotors.
Types of 5-Tire Rotation
Are you confused about the 5-tire rotation pattern? Well, don’t fret; we’ve got your back. Your best bet is to use the rotation pattern recommended by the manufacturer.
Let’s go through each rotation pattern.
The 5-Tire rearward cross-rotation pattern
The rearward cross pattern is suitable for rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, and 4×4 vehicles. You shift one of the front tires to the back as the spare and the other across on the opposite side.
The rear tires move to the front, and the spare tire fills the rear axle that was left. A 5-tire rearward cross pattern is suitable for vehicles like the Wrangler 4xe, the New Grand Cherokee, or the Jeep Compass with 4wd options.
The 5-Tire forward cross-rotation pattern
The forward cross-rotation pattern is suitable for front-wheel drive vehicles with matching spares. The forward cross pattern is similar to the 4-tire rotation pattern. The rear two tires replace the opposite sides of the front tires.
One of the front tires replaces the rear of that same side. Finally, attach the spare on the rear axle that is left. The forward cross pattern is suitable for front-wheel drive variants of Jeeps such as the Jeep Compass, the Jeep Patriot, or the Jeep Cherokee.
5-Tire Rotation vs. a 4-Tire Rotation
A 5-tire rotation provides a lot of pros compared to a 4-tire rotation. The former is also easier to perform. It makes the job easier because you won’t need more than one jack stand, as you’ll have a tire ready to replace the one you’re about to remove.
Other than that, the rotation patterns in a 4-Tire rotation are also different. There are three: the rearward cross pattern, the forward cross, and the X-pattern.
Pros of a 5-Tire Jeep rotation
Okay, maybe the longevity of the tires is not enough to sell the 5-tire rotation as it’s somewhat of a hassle, but these points are sure to persuade you. Did you know that the spare tire can go to waste because of dry rot? A 5-tire rotation can prevent that, so it’ll save you money.
Jeeps have a 4×4 drive train, and the tread depths must be equal on all tires. If you change your spare tire when a tire gives out, then without the tire rotation, there can be as much as an inch difference in the tires’ circumference.
This uneven wear can be dangerous as it’ll affect the drivetrain. Spare tires are often left without maintenance and rarely get checked. When you need them in an emergency, they should always be ready.
A 5-tire rotation makes sure that you’ll always have your spare prepped. It doesn’t cost extra compared to a 4-tire rotation, and it’s usually free when you’re getting your routine maintenance. A 5-tire rotation isn’t necessary, but it’ll surely help your Jeep perform better in the long run.
Conclusion
Tire rotation is essential for any car, be it a Jeep or a small hatchback; it’ll improve your tire life, the mileage and ensure a comfortable ride. You can get the most out of your tires if your ride comes with a full-size spare.
After reading this guide, we hope you can easily handle all the 5-tire rotation patterns and decide which one is best for you.
FAQs
How often should you do a 5-tire rotation?
Did you know that it’s necessary to perform tire rotations to make a warranty claim? Most manufacturers will tell you how often to do the rotation.
Usually, the interval is 5,000-8,000 miles or six months, whichever comes first. You can get your tires rotated when you go for your oil change to save time.
How do you know your spare is suitable for a 5-tire rotation?
All spares, even full-size ones, aren’t ideal for permanent use. Usually, if you have a spare, check the side; if it’s labeled as “temporary use,” you can’t include it in the rotation. If it isn’t temporary, then a 5-tire rotation is highly recommended.
What if I rotate my tires too often or too late?
Rotating tires too often is okay as it’ll prevent any wear pattern from developing on the tires. The big issue arises when you rotate the tires too late.
Some people rotate tires every 10,000 miles, and that’s too long. It’ll void your warranty, and more wear will damage your tires.
How long does it take for a spare tire to rot?
Spare tires can last up to 6 years before showing signs of dry rot. If you keep them covered and don’t expose them to the weather, they may last an additional year.
You can check the age of the tires by checking the tire wall for the DOT code. The last four digits tell you the date they were manufactured.
