Must all four tires be the same for vehicle annual inspection?
2 Answers
During the vehicle inspection, it is not mandatory for all four tires to have the same tread pattern. However, the two front tires (left and right) must be identical, and the two rear tires (left and right) must also be identical. The annual inspection requires that tires must not be excessively worn, and the tread patterns should not be inconsistent. It is acceptable for the rear two tires to be the same, but left and right tires must not differ. The functions of tires are: to transmit driving force, braking force, and steering force for vehicle operation; to support the vehicle load; and to reduce and absorb vibrations and impacts during driving. Methods for tire maintenance include: regularly cleaning stones from tire treads; minimizing exposure to direct sunlight; promptly checking tire pressure; paying attention to suspension maintenance; periodically inspecting front wheel alignment; and adopting careful driving practices, such as choosing smooth road surfaces and avoiding objects that could puncture or scratch the tires, as well as chemical spills that could corrode the tires.
I recently had my car’s annual inspection and specifically consulted a professional about tire issues. In fact, in most regions, such as many places domestically, the annual inspection requires that all wheels cannot be mismatched, with particular emphasis that the two tires on the same axle must be completely identical, including size, tread pattern, brand, and wear level. If the tires on the same axle are different, it can easily cause body sway or uneven braking at high speeds, significantly increasing the risk of accidents. Even if the tires between different axles are inconsistent, points may be deducted or the inspection may fail, as the tester will check the balance and safety of the tires. For peace of mind, I recommend keeping all four tires in the same specification and developing a habit of regularly checking tire wear. If any mismatches are found, replace them as soon as possible. This not only ensures a smooth pass during the annual inspection but also guarantees stable and safe daily driving—after all, safety comes first!
