If two tires are worn out and the other two still look usable, it is reasonable to ask whether you really need to replace all four. The answer depends on the vehicle, the remaining tread, tire condition and where the new tires will be installed. Deals On Wheels & Tires sells and installs new passenger tires in West Palm Beach for cars, SUVs and light-duty pickups, and this is one of the most common questions drivers ask before buying.
For a complete pre-purchase checklist covering tire size, two-versus-four replacement, puncture repair, alignment and what is included with a four-tire purchase, see our New Tire Buyer Guide for West Palm Beach drivers.
When two new tires may be enough
If the other two tires have healthy tread, no cracking or sidewall damage, no unusual wear and are compatible with the new pair, replacing two may be appropriate. The replacement tires should match the vehicle’s required size and load rating, and the pair should be installed in the position recommended for the vehicle and tire combination.
Why AWD and 4WD vehicles need extra attention
Some all-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive systems are sensitive to differences in tire circumference. A large tread-depth difference between new and worn tires can make the tires rotate at slightly different speeds. The acceptable difference varies by vehicle, so the owner’s manual or manufacturer specification should be checked before deciding on two versus four tires.
Measure the tread instead of judging by appearance
A tire can look acceptable at a glance but still be substantially more worn than a new tire. Measuring tread depth across all four tires gives a better picture. Also look for uneven shoulder wear, cupping, cracking, bulges, repeated pressure loss or old tire age. If a tire has a puncture, our tire repair service can determine whether repair is appropriate or replacement is the safer choice.
New tires will not correct an alignment problem
If the old tires wore unevenly, the cause should be checked before assuming the new tires will solve it. Pulling, an off-center steering wheel or feathered tread can point to an alignment or steering/suspension issue. Deals On Wheels uses Hunter alignment equipment for wheel alignment in West Palm Beach.
Florida rain makes tread condition especially important
South Florida drivers routinely encounter heavy rain and standing water. Tread condition affects the tire’s ability to move water away from the contact patch. That is one reason a tire-buying decision should consider the condition of all four tires, not only whether one pair has reached a legal minimum.
What to have ready when calling for new tires
- The tire size printed on the sidewall, such as 225/65R17.
- Year, make and model of the vehicle.
- Whether the vehicle is front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, AWD or 4WD.
- Any pulling, vibration, pressure-loss or uneven-wear symptoms.
- How many tires you believe need replacement.
We sell new passenger tires only. If you are deciding between two and four tires, bring the vehicle to Deals On Wheels & Tires at 3292 Shawnee Ave #9 in West Palm Beach so the tire condition and related wear can be checked before you buy.