Can I replace just one tire at a time?
2 Answers
When the tread wear on a car tire is still relatively shallow, you can replace just one tire, as the wear on tires on the same axle tends to be similar. However, it is essential to ensure that the tires on the same axle have identical tread patterns, construction, brand, and specifications. Severe wear: If the tread wear on a tire is severe, replacing only one tire can significantly impact driving safety, potentially causing the vehicle to pull to one side or even lose control. Tire replacement positioning: For front-wheel-drive vehicles, new tires should be placed on the front wheels. For rear-wheel-drive vehicles, the rear wheels are prone to slipping, as power is concentrated on them. Severe wear on the rear tires reduces their grip, so new tires should be placed on the rear wheels of rear-wheel-drive vehicles to prevent rollover.
As a novice driver who had just started driving, I once tried to save money by only replacing one flat tire. After hitting the road, I noticed the car kept pulling to one side, especially when turning or going uphill, and the steering wheel would shake uncontrollably. Once, while driving in the rain, I almost lost control and had an accident. Later, when I took it to the repair shop, the mechanic explained that the new tire was much thicker than the old ones, causing uneven wear and an imbalance when the wheels rotated. This not only made handling difficult but also increased braking distance, consumed more fuel, and damaged the suspension. He recommended checking the tread depth of all tires every six months. If the difference exceeds 2mm, they must be replaced in pairs, especially the drive wheels, which should have matching new tires. Safety comes first—spending a bit more is better than risking an accident.
