Do You Need to Replace All 4 Tires at Once?
3 Answers
It is not necessary to replace all four car tires simultaneously, but it is recommended to replace at least two severely worn tires together. The two new tires should be installed on the front wheels, while the two tires with better tread patterns should be placed on the rear wheels. The remaining tires can be kept as spares. When replacing tires, ensure they are of the same brand and model. Replacing only one tire may lead to issues such as veering or skidding during braking. Below are two criteria for normal tire replacement: 1. Wear. Tires have wear indicators; a triangular mark on the sidewall indicates the replacement point when worn to that level. Inside the tire's tread grooves, there are raised markers—when these markers align with the tire surface, it's time to replace the tire. Simple punctures can be repaired without replacement. 2. Aging. Rubber oxidizes in the air, becoming harder and reducing grip. Thus, even unused tires will degrade over time. It is advised not to use tires for more than 5 years from their production date, which is marked on the tire's sidewall.
As an average city driver who commutes daily, I find tire replacement quite practical. Honestly, there's no need to replace all four tires every time unless your budget allows or all tires are severely worn. I used to only replace the two tires on the front axle to save some money, but after a few months, I noticed the steering pulling slightly. The repair shop found uneven wear on the rear axle tires affecting balance. So now, I recommend replacing all four tires—it improves handling stability, prevents issues like fishtailing or braking problems, and extends tire life. However, when replacing just one tire, make sure the model and tread depth match to avoid hazards at high speeds. Regular checks on tire pressure and wear can also minimize trouble.
From a safety perspective, I believe tire replacement should prioritize overall balance, and it's best to replace all four tires together. Significant differences in tire wear can easily lead to loss of vehicle control, such as uneven grip during turns or extended emergency braking distances, which greatly increases accident risks. I remember one time when I only replaced one rear tire on my car, and it caused slight skidding during high-speed driving in rainy conditions. The issue was only resolved after adjustments at the repair shop. If there's only partial damage, you can start by replacing just the two tires on the same axle, but it's recommended to choose the same brand and model, and check the wear level of the remaining tires. For long-term maintenance, rotating tires every six months helps achieve even wear, making it both convenient and safe.
