Should Tires Be Replaced in Pairs or All at Once?
3 Answers
If you are willing to spend the money, it is of course better to replace all the tires at once. However, the cost of replacing a single tire is not low, so saving where possible is advisable. Moreover, based on the usage characteristics of tires, the degree of wear on the four tires (especially the front and rear tires) will vary, so the timing for replacement will differ as well. Below is some relevant information about tires: 1. For the most common front-wheel-drive vehicles on the market, since the front tires bear the majority of the forces during loading, acceleration, steering, and braking, they tend to wear out faster. 2. Starting and accelerating involve the transition from static friction to kinetic friction, during which the drive wheels endure significant friction, whereas the rear wheels, as non-drive wheels, experience much less friction.
Having driven for over twenty years, I've witnessed numerous minor accidents caused by incorrect tire replacement. When replacing tires, I strongly recommend changing them in pairs rather than a single tire or hesitating to replace all. The reason is that the wear on tires on the same axle must be similar; otherwise, uneven friction during driving can cause the vehicle to pull to one side or increase braking distance. I've repeatedly reminded friends to check the tread depth of their tires. If there's a significant difference in wear on the rear tires, placing the new pair on the rear axle can reduce the risk of skidding on slippery roads. If the budget is tight and all four tires are still relatively new, replacing just one pair is a wise choice. However, if the car is old or the wear is noticeable, replacing all tires at once is safer and more convenient. Regular maintenance, such as using a coin to measure tread depth periodically, can help identify issues early.
From the perspective of a young car owner, I prioritize saving money and hassle. There's no need to replace all tires at once—that's costly. If only two tires are worn out, prioritize replacing them as a pair on the same axle, like the front or rear pair. I've personally experienced that mixing old and new tires can cause the car to shake and feel unstable, especially during high-speed cornering. While controlling costs, ensure safety—new tires are best placed on the rear axle to avoid losing control during emergency braking. Remember to use a mobile app or simple tools to check tread wear. Tires typically last 4-6 years; even if the tread looks good, consider full replacement to prevent aging and blowouts.
