Is it necessary to replace all four tires at the same time when changing car tires?
3 Answers
In general, it is best to replace all four tires at the same time. Replacing all four tires simultaneously ensures consistent traction across all wheels. Here is detailed information about car tires: 1. Overview: Car tires are one of the key components of a vehicle, directly in contact with the road surface. Together with the suspension system, they help absorb shocks during driving, ensuring good ride comfort and smooth operation. 2. Function: They ensure excellent adhesion between the wheels and the road surface; improve the vehicle's traction, braking, and off-road capability; and bear the weight of the car. The critical role tires play in vehicle performance is increasingly being recognized.
I remember when I first started driving, to save some money, I only replaced the two rear tires. Not long after, I felt the car was unstable and the steering wheel felt light. Later, a friend checked it and found out that the tread depth difference between the new and old tires was too significant, causing uneven grip. This accelerated tire wear and nearly caused a skid in the rain. Now, I insist on replacing all four tires together—not just to save money (since each tire lasts longer on average) but also to rotate their positions every few months, adjusting for different wear patterns in front-wheel or rear-wheel drive cars. After all, tires are the feet of the car. Replacing them all ensures better balance, shorter braking distances, and peace of mind when driving on highways at night. Check the tread depth; if it's down to 1.6mm, it's time to replace them—don't wait for a blowout to cause trouble.
After years of repairing cars, I've found that many minor accidents are caused by tire issues. If you only replace two new tires while the old ones have already been used for 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers, the difference in grip between the new and old tires can be significant, especially when cornering or driving at high speeds, which may cause the car to skid or have sluggish steering. For safety reasons, I always recommend replacing all tires. Check the wear on the drive wheels—front-wheel-drive cars wear out front tires faster. If you don't replace all tires, the rear tires can drag down performance and affect handling. Regularly measure the tread depth; this can be done with simple tools. If the wear is uneven, rotate the tires promptly. This can extend tire life and reduce fuel consumption. Don't risk safety to save a few hundred bucks—safety always comes first when driving.
