Is it necessary for all four tires to be of the same brand?
2 Answers
There is no regulation requiring them to be the same brand, but they must have the same tread pattern. Here is relevant information about tires: Main materials of tires: The main material of tires is rubber, and the characteristic of rubber is that it ages after prolonged use or storage, leading to significant changes in the physical properties of the tire, such as hardness and wear resistance. If aged tires continue to be used, it may lightly affect vehicle performance, or in severe cases, may lead to a tire blowout. Lifespan of tires: Generally, all-season or economy tires have a lifespan of 3-5 years, with a mileage of about 50,000 kilometers. Under normal circumstances, the 1-year lifespan of a newly manufactured tire is sufficient for use. However, for high-performance tires, the lifespan is only 20,000-30,000 kilometers. If the price is reduced, they may also be considered for purchase.
As a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience, I sincerely believe that using the same brand for all four tires is essential, not just for safety but also for driving comfort. Different brands vary significantly in design details such as tread patterns and rubber compounds. Mixing tires can lead to uneven grip, especially during rain or emergency braking, where unbalanced tire traction may cause skidding risks. Moreover, a car's wheel alignment and braking system rely on symmetrical tire configurations. Using different brands for front and rear tires can accelerate wear over time, causing body vibrations and noise. I once experienced an accident where mixed tires extended braking distance, nearly causing a disaster. Therefore, from a safety perspective, sticking to the same brand and model is a wise choice—it simplifies tire pressure monitoring during maintenance and ensures peace of mind for family trips.