Should I Replace Both Rear Tires If One Is Damaged?
2 Answers
It depends on the situation. If both tires have been driven for a considerable mileage and the wear exceeds at least 5mm, then a pair should be replaced. If it's a new car or has only been driven a few thousand kilometers, you can replace just the damaged one. The general principle is to ensure that the two tires maintain consistency in brand, specifications, tread pattern, structure, etc. Below is relevant information about car tire replacement: Replacement duration varies by situation: For drivers with good driving habits, tires generally need to be replaced every 3-5 years or after driving 60,000-80,000 kilometers. In harsher road conditions, such as frequent driving on gravel roads, frequent traffic jams, sudden braking, or sharp turns, the replacement interval will be shorter. Tire aging time: The main material of tires is rubber, which undergoes natural aging, primarily manifested as hardening of the tire and small cracks on the sidewalls. The natural aging period is typically 4-5 years. Tires should be replaced promptly after 5 years of use to prevent the risk of blowouts.
When one rear tire is damaged, I strongly recommend replacing them in pairs because safety is the top priority. Uneven wear on the rear tires will cause differences in grip, leading to unstable body movement during turns, especially in rain, snow, or at high speeds, which poses greater risks. I learned this the hard way—last time I only replaced one rear tire while the other old tire had 3mm deeper tread wear, resulting in constant pulling to one side while driving, longer braking distances, and nearly causing an accident. Experts emphasize that consistent rear tires ensure balanced handling and prevent loss of control. Check the tread depth of the old tire; if it’s more than 1/8 inch shallower than the new one, you must replace them as a pair to maintain overall vehicle performance. Also, make sure the tire size and specifications match, otherwise it may affect the drivetrain and increase maintenance costs. Regular tire inspections and pressure adjustments can extend their lifespan—this small investment is absolutely worth it.
