When it comes to replacing the rubber on your vehicle, it can be tempting to replace your tires one at a time. Doing so saves you money in the short term and will get you out of a tough spot.
However, there are a few compelling reasons why you should consider replacing all four of your tires at the same time. In this article, we’ll run through the benefits of doing so, and if replacing just one tire is really that bad.
Let’s delve in.
Should I replace all four tires at the same time?
In an ideal world, yes. Replacing all four tires at the same time will save you money in the long run and offer better performance and safety. This is because all tires will have the same composition, tread pattern and tread depth.
Replacing all four tires at the same time is even more important on AWD (All-Wheel Drive) or 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive) vehicles. This is due to the traction control systems in these vehicles, where torque and power are distributed to each wheel individually. This helps the car maintain maximum traction and grip. If your tires are mismatched here, it can lead to excessive strain on the drivetrain due to incorrect readings.
For 2WD (Two-Wheel Drive) cars, replacing two tires on the same axle as a minimum is recommended. Therefore, it’s OK to replace two tires instead of all four in this instance. Although, it’s still advisable to replace all four if you can.
The benefits of replacing all four tires
Replacing all four tires at the same time ensures the best on-road performance for your vehicle. You will experience better traction, grip, predictability and ride comfort while making cost savings in the long term.
Let’s run through each of these benefits in some more detail.
Performance
When you buy four brand-new tires at the same time, you can benefit from the best possible performance for your vehicle. Reduced stopping distances, better grip and increased fuel economy are just some of the potential benefits of doing so.
Who doesn’t love getting the most out of your vehicle?!
Safety
You probably already know that tires play a critical role in helping you maintain control of your vehicle. Replacing all four tires simultaneously ensures that each tire is of the same build quality and condition, which will increase safety and predictability on the road.
Think about it this way: if you have a brand-new performance tire on the front-left of your vehicle, and a 6-year-old budget tire on the front-right, you’re adding unpredictability into the equation. There’s no telling how each tire will react to different situations, like in heavy rain or snow.
Cost
Sure – it sounds counterintuitive. How am I saving money if I’m splashing out on four brand-new tires?
However, swapping out each tire one at a time can accelerate wear on your other tires, causing them to need replacing earlier. This is down to the difference between the tread depths, patterns and age of the tires.
Plus, you’re probably paying for tracking and balancing each time you replace just one tire. If you replace all of them at the same time, you’ll benefit from only having to pay for one tracking and balancing session.
Comfort
This one really does depend on the characteristics of the tire you buy – but generally, when replacing all four tires at once, you’re giving yourself the best possible chance of achieving optimum comfort on the road.
Tires make a huge difference to ride comfort. When all four tires are uniform in tread pattern, tread depth, compound and inflation level, your car should feel right at home on the road. In turn, you should benefit from a more comfortable ride, which can help on long road trips and commutes.
The exceptions
It’s generally OK to replace just one tire if all tires have less than a few thousand miles on them. This will ensure that the tread depth and overall health of the older tires do not differ too greatly from the new one.
To avoid imbalances and unpredictability on the road, it’s best to purchase the same make and model as the other three tires if you’re replacing just one. Once your new tire is on, it’s a good idea to check all tire pressures and make sure they are similar.
Summary
It’s true – replacing all four tires at the same time is a very good idea. Not only will it benefit the overall performance and safety of your vehicle, but it can save you lots of time and money in the long run.
With four brand-new tires gracing your wheels, you can drive peacefully knowing you’re getting the most out of your vehicle, and you won’t have to worry about replacing them anytime soon.
Any questions? Let me know below and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can!
