Should You Replace Tires in Pairs?

[RemingtonAnn]

It is recommended to replace tires in pairs. However, specific conditions should be considered: 1. If the car is new and has been driven for a short distance, only the problematic tire needs to be replaced, as the tires on the same axle will have similar wear. 2. If the tires have been driven for tens of thousands of kilometers but do not yet need replacement, and only one tire has an issue, replacing just one tire can cause uneven height, vehicle bumpiness, or steering pull at higher speeds. In this case, it is best to replace both tires on the axle. 3. If the repair shop does not have the same brand or model of tire for the car, replacing a pair temporarily is acceptable, but for long-term driving, both pairs should be replaced.

[VioletAnn]

I've been driving for over a decade, and when it comes to changing tires, I have to say it's usually best to replace them in pairs. Why? If the tire wear is uneven, with one old and one new, the grip will differ, making it prone to veering at high speeds or increasing braking distance. On rainy days, it might even cause skidding accidents. Once, I tried to save money by replacing just one tire, and the result was a noticeable wobble while driving, plus increased fuel consumption. It's best to replace both front and rear tires to ensure balance and safety. Generally, tire lifespan is about five to six years, or you can judge by the tread wear—if the difference is too significant, it's time to replace the pair. Remember to regularly check tire pressure and wear at a shop. Don't underestimate these details—they're crucial for driving safety.

[AustinDella]

As a new driver who just got my license, I was quite conflicted about whether to replace a pair of tires when changing them. Later, I asked the mechanics at the repair shop, and they said it mainly depends on the wear. If both tires have similar wear, replacing just one is fine; but if the difference is significant, especially when the tread depth exceeds 2mm, you must replace a pair to avoid safety hazards. When I first bought my car, I only replaced one tire, but later I noticed the steering kept pulling to the right. The mechanic explained that this was due to the difference in grip between the new and old tires. Now I’ve learned my lesson—every time I check my tires, I use a coin to measure the tread depth to ensure consistency before driving with peace of mind.

[LeLaura]

From a practical standpoint, there's no need to always replace tires in pairs. Replacing just one can be cost-effective and efficient, but it's crucial to ensure the wear levels between the new and old tires are similar to avoid imbalance issues that could increase maintenance costs. Personally, I prioritize cost-efficiency—if only one tire is damaged, there's no need to replace two. First, check the remaining tread depth and the tire's position. For instance, if the rear tires have minimal wear, simply replacing the front drive tire may suffice. Always match the brand and model to maintain driving stability.