Yes, you can put two different tires on a car, but it is a practice that requires extreme caution and is generally not recommended for all four wheels. The safest approach for optimal vehicle handling, braking, and stability is to always use four identical tires. Mixing tires can be acceptable only in specific, temporary situations, such as replacing a single damaged tire on an all-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicle with one that has a very similar tread depth to the others, or using a temporary spare tire.
The primary risks involve the vehicle's sophisticated drivetrain and safety systems. On AWD systems, significantly different tire circumferences—even a difference of 3/8 of an inch—can cause excessive wear and potential damage to the center differential or power transfer unit, as the system constantly fights against the speed difference between the axles. For all cars, mixing tire models with different grip levels, especially between the front and rear axles, can lead to unpredictable handling. For instance, placing worn tires on the rear of a front-wheel-drive car increases the risk of oversteer (where the rear of the car slides out) during cornering or in wet conditions.
If you must mix tires, follow these critical guidelines:
- Same Axle: The two tires on the same axle (both front or both rear) must always be the same brand, model, size, and have very similar tread depth.
- Prioritize the Rear: If only two new tires are being installed, they should typically be placed on the rear axle. This provides more stable handling and reduces the chance of a loss of control from the rear end.
- Check Specifications: Ensure the load index and speed rating of any replacement tire meet or exceed the vehicle manufacturer's specifications.
| Scenario | Recommendation | Key Risk |
|---|
| AWD Vehicle | Replace with 4 identical tires. If replacing one, shave a new tire to match the tread depth of the others. | Drivetrain binding and damage. |
| FWD/REAR Vehicle (New tires on rear) | Acceptable short-term. Install matching new tires on the rear axle. | Improved stability; prevents oversteer. |
| FWD/REAR Vehicle (New tires on front) | Not recommended. Worn rear tires can lead to loss of control. | Increased risk of oversteer. |
| Different Tread Patterns (Same Axle) | Never acceptable. | Uneven braking and unstable cornering. |
| Using a Temporary Spare | For emergency use only, at low speeds and for short distances. | Limited traction and handling capability. |
Ultimately, consulting a professional tire technician is the best course of action to assess the specific risks for your vehicle.
