3 Reasons Not to Mix Tires On Your Vehicle

It is highly recommended for optimal safety and performance for the same type of tires to be placed on every wheel position on your vehicle. As a general rule, your vehicle’s tires should be the same brand, size, tread pattern, load index, and speed rating on the front and rear. 

There are certain instances when different size tires are allowable. For example, if you have a high performance vehicle, you might have tires that are a slightly different size on the front and the back. In these cases, the vehicle is made to handle the tire differences. 

Overall, though, mismatched tire sizes, treadwear patterns and tire constructions can be dangerous. We always recommend following the vehicle manufacturer’s specifications for proper tire size, load index, and other specifications when choosing tires for your car, truck or SUV.  

How Do You Mix Tires?

Mixing tires means using a tire with a different characteristic from a matching set. Industry leaders recommend replacing all four tires at the same time or at least two on the rear vs front of the vehicle. Some examples of mixed tires include the following combinations:

• Tires for different seasons (i.e., summer, winter)
• Run-flat tires with non-run-flat varieties
• Tires with varying treads or sizes
• Tires from different manufacturers 

Why You Shouldn’t Mix Tires On Your Vehicle 

Uneven Tread Wear – Routine tire rotations and wheel alignments will provide uniform wearing on all tires. Mixing tires will cause uneven weight distribution across the four wheels, and some tires will wear out faster than the others. 

Poor Handling – Mixed tires can make it challenging to drive. The tires on your vehicle are designed with traction and handling properties. Mixing tires with varying sizes, designs, and tread patterns can cause vehicle handling and braking issues. Poor handling makes for unstable driving conditions and increases your risk for accidents on the road.

Limited Performance – Mismatched tires will not work together effectively for smooth and safe driving. This can prevent your vehicle from reaching optimum driving performance, limiting its acceleration rate, maximum speed, and load capacity.

Maintaining Your Tires

Your tires can last anywhere between 5 to 10 years with proper maintenance. Mixed tires might force you to replace them earlier than expected. Identical tires will provide traction, grip, and overall safety. Tires play an integral role in every vehicle’s comfort and handling capabilities. It is always best to drive on tires that are identical in every detail. If your car, truck or SUV needs new tires and you are unsure of what would be best, we’re always here to answer your questions. Reach out to our tire experts today!

Postle Tire Barn is your locally owned and operated tire and automotive shop in West Alabama. We specialize in tire and wheel maintenance and replacement, brake system repair as well as wheel alignment and suspension repair. 

Contact Us

If your vehicle is shaking as you drive down the road, don’t ignore it. Have your vehicle serviced by one of our skilled technicians today. In fact, with a little preventative maintenance you can prevent the shaking all together. Your tires and wheels are not the only causes of vehicle vibrations, but it’s a great place to start. Schedule a maintenance visit with us today!

Postle Tire Barn is a family owned and operated tire and automotive repair shop in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. We’re located on Jug Factory Road behind McDonalds. We’ve been West Alabama’s number one vibration correction facility for more than 40 years. Contact us today!