Tire and Wheel Inspection and Rotation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Pontiac Sunfire and 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Tires should be rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles (10 000 km to 13 000 km).

CAUTION: Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make wheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident. When you change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle. In an emergency, you can use a cloth or a paper towel to do this; but be sure to use a scraper or wire brush later, if you need to, to get all the rust or dirt off.

Check the tires for abnormal wear or damage. If irregular or premature tire wear exists, refer to Tire Diagnosis - Irregular or Premature Wear in Tires and Wheels.

Ensure the spare tire is stored securely. Push, pull, and then try to rotate or turn the tire. If it moves, use the folding wrench to tighten the cable. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.

Rotate the tires to equalize the wear and obtain maximum tire life. Refer to Tire Rotation in Tires and Wheels.

Fig 1: Identifying Tire Rotation Pattern

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

When rotating tires, always use the correct rotation pattern shown here.

Do not include the compact spare tire in tire rotation.

After the tires have been rotated, adjusted the front and rear inflation pressures as shown on the Certification/Tire label. Ensure that all wheel nuts are properly tightened. Refer to Capacities - Approximate Fluid .

Make certain that all wheel nuts are properly tightened. Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications in Tires and Wheels.