Should Tires Be Replaced in Pairs?
2 Answers
It is recommended to replace tires in pairs. If only one tire is replaced, the tread patterns on both sides of the vehicle will differ, which can pose safety hazards during driving. Here are some additional details: Safety: Replacing both tires on the same axle ensures that the tread patterns and wear levels are identical, making the vehicle more stable and safer to drive. Considerations: For a new car with relatively low mileage, replacing only the problematic tire may suffice, as the wear on tires on the same axle is likely similar. However, if the tires have already been driven for tens of thousands of kilometers and one tire develops an issue, replacing just that one tire can lead to uneven heights, causing the vehicle to bounce or veer at higher speeds. In such cases, it is best to replace both tires.
That's a great question! I don't think you necessarily have to replace tires in pairs, but for safety reasons, it's usually best to replace them in pairs in most cases. For example, if your car is front-wheel drive, the drive tires will wear out faster, and replacing just one could cause the car to pull to one side, affecting handling and braking distance. I often check my tires myself by using my fingernail to gauge the tread depth and see how worn they are. If the two front tires are similarly worn, replacing just one might be okay, but if there's a big difference between old and new, it could cause problems. Driving in winter snow requires extra caution—replacing a pair can make the car more stable. Of course, if your budget allows, replacing a pair is the most hassle-free option, saving you frequent trips to the shop for wheel balancing and alignment. In short, it depends on the situation, but safety comes first—don't take risks to save money. Remember to check tire pressure and wear during every maintenance check; it can save you a lot of trouble.
