Tyres – How To Choose The Right Ones For Your Car

It can be inconvenient to blow out a tyre. You figure it'll be a fast fix—go to the tyre store, get the same model (or maybe a little less expensive?) and then you're done.

However, in many instances, you will get advised to change all four tyres. What are you talking about?

We are frequently asked if you can change just one tyre on your vehicle. And, in reality, it is situational. Here are some factors to consider when determining whether you can change just one tyre, two tyres, or four Continental Tyres London.

First, consider why you might need to replace a tyre on your car in the first place.

When Should You Replace Your Tyres?

The cause in many instances is your tyre tread depth. The tread on fresh tyres typically varies from 10/32 to 11/32 of an inch. When the tread depth on the tyres hits 2/32", the Virginia State Police deems them unsafe, and the car fails a Virginia state safety check.

Experts, on the other hand, suggest changing your tyres when they reach 4/32" or less. It's a matter of protection.

When the tyre wears down to less than 4/32", traction becomes an issue, particularly in wet circumstances. The smaller the traction, the greater the likelihood of hydroplaning.

Furthermore, with less tread depth, your vehicle may be unable to halt quickly enough to avoid a severe accident. A few seconds of halting time can mean the difference between ending on time or not.

Front tyres wear out quicker than rear tyres because they bear the weight of the engine and steer the vehicle, which adds friction.

There's always the risk of a tyre pressure loss, which would result in an under-inflated tire, or a tyre explosion. Over-inflation can also result in tyre harm. Over-inflating a tyre reduces the tyre's interaction with the road, making it more vulnerable to harm when it hits a pothole.

Even if the tread on your tyres hasn't worn down, that doesn't indicate they're secure to drive on. Tires degrade with age and can pose a safety concern over time. This is why cars and tyre producers recommend replacing tyres every five to ten years.

What to Think About Before Replacing Just One Tyre

So, can you only change one tyre on your car? The short response is that it varies.

1. The Other Tyres' Treads

To change only one or two tyres without compromising speed or safety, the remaining tyres must have sufficient tread remaining. If your tyres are relatively recent, you may be able to get away with changing only one or two of them.

If your tyres have worn down to the point where there is more than a 4/32" disparity between the new and old tires, you should replace them all.

2. Tyre Type

Your tyres' tread design and tyre type should be comparable. That is, whether they are front or back tires, you want all of them to be the same type and in comparable tread condition.

Why? Because minor variations in tyre characteristics influence their behaviour—specifically, your vehicle's ability to accelerate, stop, corner, and manage water. You want a smooth, consistent driving experience.

If the identical tyre type is not available, choose the closest match. (For example, if you have all-season tires, replace them with another sort of all-season tyre. Don't get a tyre with an uneven or symmetric tread pattern if your tyres have a straight tread pattern.)

3. Vehicle Type

Is your vehicle a four-wheel drive (AWD)? You may have heard that all four tyres on an AWD car must always get replaced.

Because the lower-tread tyres have a smaller diameter, they spin more quicker than the new ones. (s). Different wheel speeds on an AWD car will place extra pressure on engine components (such as the transmission and transfer case), potentially resulting in significant harm and expensive repairs.

If the difference is greater than 2/32", you will need to change two or four tyres. Check your owner's handbook to see what the maker suggests; some manufacturers recommend replacing all four, while others recommend replacing only two.

It may be difficult to think that such a minor difference can have such a significant effect, but even slightly mismatched tyres can harm an AWD vehicle's drivetrain.

Let’s Recap:

• You can get away with changing only one or two tyres if their tread depths are within 4/32" of each other.

• The tyres on an AWD car must be within 2/32" of each other. However, you should always consult the owner's manual to see what the maker suggests.

• Buy an identical or comparable tyre (brand, size, weight classification, tread pattern, etc.) if purchasing one or two tyres to ensure a balanced, secure journey.

• Whatever the make and model of your car, the Cheap Tyres London specialists can help you find the tyres that are appropriate for you.