Is it okay to replace just one car tire?
4 Answers
It is possible to replace just one car tire, but the new tire must have a tread groove depth similar to the other tire on the same axle. Otherwise, it may cause issues such as vehicle deviation. Tires on the same axle should be of the same specification, structure, manufacturer, and tread pattern, including load index and speed rating. It is recommended to replace at least two tires on the same axle. The details are as follows: 1. If the car is new and has not been driven much, only the problematic tire needs to be replaced, as the wear on the tires of the same axle will be similar; 2. If the tires have been driven for tens of thousands of kilometers but do not yet need replacement, and only one tire has an issue, replacing just one tire may result in uneven height, causing the vehicle to jolt or deviate at higher speeds. Therefore, in this case, it is best to replace a pair of tires; 3. If the repair shop does not have the same brand or model of tire as the car, for short-term driving, replace one pair, but for long-term driving, replace two pairs.
I absolutely do not recommend replacing just one tire, as it poses risks to vehicle balance and safety. I've repaired many cars where owners tried replacing only one new tire, resulting in poorer handling during high-speed turns or on wet roads—the new tire grips better while the old one slips, increasing the risk of skidding. Uneven wear worsens, shortening the old tire's lifespan faster, forcing owners to spend more on premature replacements. It’s best to replace at least two tires in pairs to ensure consistency between front and rear wheels—safety comes first. Checking tread depth differences is also crucial; if it exceeds 2mm, don’t hesitate—replace a pair to avoid accidents. Saving money isn’t worth compromising peace of mind.
I understand the idea of saving money by replacing just one tire, and from an economic standpoint, it might indeed seem more cost-effective. However, it depends on the specific situation: if the other tires are still relatively new, with short usage time and similar tread depth, replacing just one may not be a big issue. But if the other tires are severely worn, the differences become significant, causing the vehicle to shake noticeably, consume more fuel, and even potentially damage the suspension system. In the long run, replacing tires in pairs can save more money and avoid repeated hassles. I recommend first assessing the condition of all tires—matching with an old tire is ideal but uncommon. Sometimes used tires are an option but come with higher risks; replacing two tires directly is often a safer choice.
I personally experienced the terrible consequences of replacing just one tire. After a flat tire last time, I opted to save money by replacing only the new one. Within days, I noticed steering wheel vibrations while driving, especially during rainy cornering when the car felt unstable—nearly causing an accident. Inspection revealed the new tire had deeper treads, while the uneven wear on the old tires created inconsistent grip, accelerating damage to the others. Soon, I had to replace another tire, wasting both money and time. The lesson? Unless the other tires are nearly new, don’t take the risk—prioritize timely paired replacements for peace of mind behind the wheel.
