Can one winter tire be different?

[StMariana]

Winter tires cannot have one that is different. The difference between winter tires and regular tires: Winter tires are made of softer material compared to regular tires, allowing them to maintain flexibility in low temperatures. As a result, winter tires provide better traction on snowy and icy roads during winter compared to regular tires. The tread material of winter tires is softer, and their specially formulated silica-mixed rubber compound grips smooth ice surfaces more effectively, generating greater friction than regular tires. This enhances vehicle control and safety on slippery ice surfaces. Regular tires, on the other hand, become harder as temperatures drop. Impact of inconsistent winter tires: It can cause oversteering or brake-induced skidding. If winter tires are only installed on the front wheels, the rear wheels may lack sufficient grip, leading to oversteering or skidding during braking. If winter tires are only installed on the rear wheels, the front wheels may lack sufficient grip, causing steering issues while driving. Therefore, all four tires should be replaced with winter tires, and tires on the same axle must be of the same specification, structure, and tread pattern.

[TessaLynn]

I think it's absolutely unacceptable to have one snow tire that's different from the others, as it poses a significant safety hazard. Snow tires are designed for better traction, and if one is different, the uneven wear can cause the vehicle to skid or lose control on snowy roads. I recently experienced a similar issue—after switching to snow tires for winter, I noticed one was an older model, and during a turn, the car felt unstable and nearly skidded into an accident. Since then, I insist on using the same brand and model for all tires to ensure consistent traction and wear. In snowy conditions, uniform tires perform better on icy surfaces, reducing the risk of accidents. Also, don’t overlook tire pressure checks, as levels that are too high or low can affect performance. Mismatched tires may also accelerate wear on other components, increasing long-term maintenance costs. When replacing tires, I recommend choosing a matched full set—safety first.

[DiHaven]

I strongly oppose mixing different winter tires, as it can severely compromise handling. Imagine driving on icy or snowy roads with one tire providing strong grip while another is weak—this can easily lead to side slipping or directional instability, which is extremely dangerous. I once had a friend who tried to save money by only replacing a pair of winter tires, and they lost control during a turn—fortunately, no accident occurred. Winter tires have unique structures with deep treads designed to expel snow and prevent slipping. If they differ, uneven wear can affect braking distance. I recommend replacing all four tires as a complete set, preferably with the same brand and model. Don’t underestimate this—it can be life-saving in extreme weather. Additionally, proper storage of winter tires is crucial; avoid direct sunlight to extend their lifespan. In the long run, uniform tires save hassle and prevent repeated maintenance and high repair costs.

[StFernando]

Using just one different snow tire is absolutely not advisable as it can disrupt the overall balance. With decades of driving experience, I understand that inconsistent tires lead to uneven grip, making the car more prone to skidding or rolling over in snowy conditions. Different tires wear at different rates, and those that age faster may blow out, posing significant safety risks. Using a full set of matching snow tires ensures stable driving on icy and snowy roads and extends their lifespan. I regularly check tread depth, which should be at least 2-3 millimeters for safety. Mixing tires can also cause vibrations and noise, affecting driving comfort. Don’t cut corners or opt for cheaper solutions—replace all tires with a matched set.