Should I Replace Two or Four Tires at a Time?
2 Answers
It is better to replace all four tires at once. Regardless of how many tires are replaced each time, it is necessary to ensure that the wear level and tread pattern of the directional tires are completely consistent. If tires of the same pattern and model have different tread wear levels, the driver may feel the steering wheel pulling to one side during driving, resulting in a different driving experience. Therefore, if only one tire is replaced, the new tire should not be used as a directional tire. Below are the signs that indicate tires need to be replaced: Severe Wear: Each tire tread groove has a wear limit indicator, which is approximately 2mm thick. It is recommended to replace the tires when the tread thickness wears to about 4mm from the limit indicator, or about 6mm from the deepest part of the groove. Severe Aging: Observe the patterns on the tire tread and sidewalls. If cracks are widespread, it indicates that the tire has severely aged. At this point, even if the mileage is not long or the usage time is short, the tires still need to be replaced promptly. Otherwise, aged tires, due to weakened sidewall strength, are prone to blowouts at high speeds due to rising temperatures.
I often ponder about tire replacement, and the key lies in the actual situation and vehicle usage needs. Safety is the primary consideration. If the other tires show minimal wear, replacing just two tires on the same axle is the most economical option, while also maintaining grip balance. However, it's crucial to choose tires of the same brand and model to avoid differences in friction coefficients that could lead to unstable handling. For four-wheel-drive or high-performance vehicles, I recommend replacing all four tires together, as even minor diameter differences can damage the drivetrain. Remember to perform wheel balancing and four-wheel alignment immediately after installing new tires to prevent issues like pulling or steering wheel vibration. During regular driving, pay attention to the tread depth; when the main tread grooves are shallower than 1.6 mm, it's time to consider replacement.
