Replace Two Tires or Four Tires?
2 Answers
Both replacing two tires or four tires are acceptable. Below are specific details about tire replacement: If conditions allow: It is recommended to replace all four tires at the same time, as having the same tread pattern and wear level ensures consistent grip for all four wheels. If tires with different tread patterns and wear levels must be used together, ensure that tires with the same tread pattern and wear level are on the same axle to avoid performance issues caused by inconsistent grip. If conditions do not allow: Replacing two tires on the same axle is also acceptable, but ensure that the tires have the same tread pattern, structure, brand, size, load index, and speed rating. For safety reasons, it is best to install the new tires on the front axle and the old ones on the rear axle. At the very least, ensure that the tires on the same axle are identical to avoid side skidding caused by uneven friction during sudden braking.
After driving for so many years, changing tires is a common issue. Generally, I recommend replacing all four tires. The reason is simple: the wheels are an integrated system, and wear is often uneven. If you only replace two tires, the new and old tires will have different grip, tread depth, and hardness, leading to unstable handling. Especially in rainy or snowy conditions, the car is more prone to skidding when turning or braking. I experienced this myself once—I only replaced the two front tires, and the old rear tires caused the car to wobble, nearly causing an accident on the highway. Additionally, the vehicle's drivetrain plays a big role. For example, front-wheel-drive cars wear out their front tires faster. If you only replace two tires, the old rear tires might hold you back. Tire lifespan is typically around 50,000 kilometers, but aging varies by driving habits. For long-term safety, it's best to replace them all at once. Also, make sure to match the brand and model to avoid differences in friction coefficients. Don’t take big risks to save small money.
