Is it okay to have different tires on the front and rear axles?
2 Answers
In theory, there is no problem with having different tires on the front and rear axles as long as the size and performance are not affected. However, in general, even if all tire parameters are the same, there will still be some differences between tires of different brands. Therefore, it is usually recommended to choose tires of the same brand when replacing them. Below is some relevant information about car tires: Replacement cycle: Tires should generally not be used for more than 3 years or exceed 60,000 kilometers in mileage. Replacement conditions: As the tire rubber gradually ages, deep grooves will appear on the tire sidewalls. However, as long as the tire sidewalls have not been impacted and the cords are not broken, the tires can continue to be used.
I've seen many car owners do this to save money—only replacing severely worn tires and placing them in different positions at the front or rear. However, this is quite risky. Using different brands or models of tires on the front and rear wheels can affect the overall balance of the vehicle. For example, if the front tires have strong grip while the rear ones are inferior, the car may easily skid on slippery roads, especially during turns, increasing the risk of losing control. When driving, I always remind my friends to handle tires symmetrically: tires on the same axle must be completely identical, otherwise the ABS system might misjudge the braking force. Moreover, tires with different tread patterns can accelerate uneven wear, which is not worth the cost. It's best to replace all four tires with the same model to maintain safety and longevity.
