Should All Four Tires Be Replaced?
2 Answers
Tires can be replaced either two at a time or all four at once. When replacing two, it is essential to replace the two on the same axle. Below is relevant information about tires: 1. Tire Introduction: Tires are the only components of a car that come into contact with the ground. Some car owners only replace the tires on the drive wheels when changing tires. For example, some front-wheel-drive car owners only replace the two front tires, while some rear-wheel-drive car owners only replace the two rear tires. In fact, this practice is acceptable. 2. Tire Aging: Tires are made of rubber and will age over time. It is recommended that car owners replace their tires every four years, even if the mileage is low within those four years. This is because tires can age even when not in use for extended periods, so it is important to check the production date when purchasing new tires.
I've been driving for over 30 years and often get asked whether all tires need to be replaced. I believe safety should always come first. If tires aren't replaced as a complete set, uneven wear can cause vehicle instability, longer braking distances, and becomes particularly dangerous in rainy conditions. A colleague once only replaced two tires, which led to a high-speed blowout and near-accident. Generally speaking, if your old tires are over 5 years old or the tread depth is less than 1.6mm, you must replace them all. Additionally, for 4WD vehicles, full replacement is recommended to avoid damaging the drivetrain. Of course, new tires provide better traction and more stable handling - especially important when traveling with family. While it may cost more to replace all four, the peace of mind is worth it. That said, there are budget-friendly options like staggered replacement when wear is even, but you must ensure minimal diameter difference between new and old tires to avoid significant risks.
