What procedure is performed to prevent uneven tire wear on a vehicle?

Tire rotation is a critical procedure performed to prevent uneven tire wear on a vehicle. As a vehicle is driven, different tires experience varying degrees of wear based on their position and the load they carry. For instance, front tires typically wear faster due to steering and the additional weight of the engine, while rear tires may last longer.

By regularly rotating the tires, usually every 5,000 to 8,000 miles, the wear is evened out among all four tires. This practice extends the lifespan of the tires, improves handling and ride quality, and ensures better traction. Each tire takes turns being in the front and back positions, as well as on different sides, which leads to a more balanced wear pattern.

While tire alignment ensures that the wheels are set to the vehicle manufacturer's specifications for proper angles, and tire balancing addresses the distribution of weight around the tire and wheel assembly to prevent vibrations, neither directly addresses the issue of uneven tread wear caused by differing positions. Tire inspections are essential for checking the condition of the tires, but they do not actively promote even wear like rotation does. Therefore, tire rotation is specifically aimed at mitigating uneven tire wear, making it the correct answer.