Rotating the wheels

WARNING

Interchanging the front and rear wheels may severely impair the driving characteristics if the wheels or tires have different dimensions.

The wheel brakes or suspension components may also be damaged. There is a risk of accident.

Rotate front and rear wheels only if the wheels and tires are of the same dimensions.

On vehicles equipped with a tire pressure monitor, electronic components are located in the wheel.

Tire-mounting tools should not be used near the valve. This could damage the electronic components.

Only have tires changed at a qualified specialist workshop.

Always observe the instructions and safety notes in the "Mounting a wheel" section  .

The wear patterns on the front and rear tires differ, depending on the operating conditions.

Rotate the wheels before a clear wear pattern has formed on the tires. Front tires typically wear more on the shoulders and the rear tires in the center.

If your vehicle's tire configuration allows, you can rotate the wheels according to the intervals in the tire manufacturer's warranty book in your vehicle documents. If this is not available, the tires should then be rotated every 3000 to 6000 miles (5000 to 10,000 km), or earlier if the tire wear requires this. Do not change the direction of wheel rotation.

Clean the contact surfaces of the wheel and the brake disc thoroughly every time a wheel is interchanged. Check the tire pressure and, if necessary, restart the tire pressure loss warning system or the tire pressure monitor.

Direction of rotation

Tires with a specified direction of rotation have additional benefits, e.g. if there is a risk of hydroplaning. You will only gain these benefits if the correct direction of rotation is observed.

An arrow on the sidewall of the tire indicates its correct direction of rotation.

Storing wheels

Store wheels that are not being used in a cool, dry and preferably dark place. Protect the tires from oil, grease, gasoline and diesel.

Cleaning the wheels

WARNING

The water jet from a circular jet nozzle (dirt blasters) can cause invisible exterior damage to the tires or chassis components.

Components damaged in this way may fail unexpectedly. There is a risk of an accident.

Do not use power washers with circular jet nozzles to clean the vehicle. Have damaged tires or chassis components replaced immediately.