When Replacing Tires, Should You Change One or a Pair?
3 Answers
When replacing tires, it is necessary to change a pair of tires. Below is relevant information about tire replacement: Scenarios for replacing a single tire: For a new car that hasn't been driven extensively, you only need to replace the problematic tire since tires on the same axle wear out at a similar rate. If only one tire is replaced, it's advisable to install the new tire on the drive wheel. Scenarios for replacing a pair of tires: If the tires have been driven for tens of thousands of kilometers but don't yet require replacement, and only one tire has an issue, replacing just that one tire may cause uneven height between the tires, leading to bumpy rides or steering deviation at higher speeds. In such cases, it's best to replace a pair of tires.
Last week, I just went to the repair shop to replace a tire—only one was changed—and now I feel like the steering wheel is slightly off. Actually, it's best to replace tires in pairs, especially the two on the same axle. Uneven wear between the two tires can affect balance and braking distance. My car is front-wheel drive, so the front tires wear out faster. The mechanic suggested rotating the front and rear tires regularly, checking them every 10,000 kilometers or so. If replacing a single tire, you must ensure the new and old tires are of the exact same brand and model, with similar wear levels, otherwise it can cause pulling or even accelerate uneven wear. Once during heavy rain, I had to brake hard and clearly felt insufficient grip on one side—it really gave me a scare. For safety, I now always replace tires in pairs. Though it costs a bit more, it gives me peace of mind.
Neighbor Lao Wang always complains about car vibrations, and later found out it was caused by uneven tire wear. When it comes to tires, whether to replace one or a pair depends on the specific situation. If the other tire has only run 5,000 kilometers with a tread depth exceeding 5 millimeters, replacing it with a new tire of the same brand and model is acceptable. However, if the old tire has run over 30,000 kilometers, I recommend replacing the pair directly. Otherwise, the significant difference in diameter between the new and old tires would be like walking with one new shoe and one old shoe. After replacing new tires, remember to perform a wheel alignment; otherwise, uneven tire wear and misalignment can become bigger issues. I drive a rear-wheel-drive car, which requires more attention when replacing rear tires. The mechanic said the rolling radius on both sides must be absolutely identical. Also, avoid frequently scraping the curb when parking to extend tire life.
