Tire rotation on E34s

[Alpinewhite]

Hi All,

How many of you do tire rotation on your E34s? And how often?

Why tire rotation should be done? I hear kind of mixed opinions on tire rotation. Some say on a BMW one should never do tire rotation; is it true?

Thanks
Arun

[bfd]

"Officially," BMW says DO NOT rotate. However, one BMW independent that I use to go does it. What they do is rotate in an X-cross pattern for asymetrical tires. Note, if you have unidirectional, then you can't rotate.

[spyrot1]

BMW owners manual states that you should not rotate the tires on a E34, at least not on the 1995 models...

But I guess you can do whatever you like

[Alpinewhite]

What is the benefit of tire rotation? There should be some solid benefit to go against owners manual. Like changing oil every 3K miles.

Thanks
Arun

[Ross]

Every other oil change, Fronts to rear.

[Ross]

There is nothing in the owners manual that states not to rotate tires, unless your car has different size f/r.
It's done to even out tire wear. Fronts experience more cornering loads so wear more to the edges.

[spyrot1]

There is nothing in the owners manual that states not to rotate tires, unless your car has different size f/r.
It's done to even out tire wear. Fronts experience more cornering loads so wear more to the edges.

Actually the owners manual specifically states that you should not rotate the tires due to the nature of the suspension. Whether or not that is a good idea is a different question. But yes BMW in all their infinite knowledge do not want you to rotate the tires on an E34.

I can scan in the precise page if you want...

[s_ribbens]

It does specify to NOT rotate tires. This is because of uneven camber wear between the front and rear tires.

Personally, I don't. That's simply because I have a staggered set up. If I didn't, I would rotate.

[Zeuk in Oz]

I rotate front to rear half way through tyre life, or threreabouts. Plus re-balance +/- wheel alignment.

I think it is not a good idea to change the rotational direction of a tyre - eg moving a tyre from Left front to Right front where it would be going backwards.

[s_ribbens]

If it's a directional tire, then yes. Otherwise, it really doesn't matter.