Does the tread on tires have to match?

The short answer is that, in general, manufacturers do not recommend tire mixing at all. That means having the same brand, size, tread pattern, load index, and speed rating on the front and rear tires. However, there are exceptions that can lead to mixing tire brands.

Can you mix tread patterns?

Mixing different tread patterns across the same axle is not allowed. The identical tyre model and tread pattern must be fitted for a single axle. You can, however, use different tyres on a separate axle – just as long as they too match each other.

Is it bad to run 2 different types of tires?

Mixing tires is a bad idea because tires are designed with different traction and handling properties. As such, tires are supposed to be installed as a set. Combining different types of tires with varying sizes, designs, and tread patterns will result in unpredictable and jittery vehicle handling and braking.

How much tread depth difference is OK?

To minimize variances, always match tires: same brand, size and type. The tread depth difference between front and rear tires should be no more than 3/32nds of an inch.

Are mismatched tires a problem?

The big problem with mismatched tires is that they are often a sign of a seller who takes poor care of his car. If the tires are different sizes then they may also wear at different rates, and you’ll be shopping for new tires sooner than you think. Functionally, mismatched tires will wear out at different rates.

How different can tire treads be?

Over time, your tires will become less effective at gripping the road. Tires can lose their footing long before they’re worn out, and, if a tread has worn down too far, they could become a serious safety issue. The trick is to not let it get to that point.

Is it OK to have different tires front and back?

Drivers should avoid mixing tires with different tread patterns, internal constructions or sizes (unless front and rear staggered sizes are specified by the vehicle manufacture), and use identical tires on all of their vehicle’s wheel positions in order to maintain the best control and stability.

Is having mismatched tires bad?

We advise against driving with mismatch wheels and tires. Mismatched wheels and tires can cause premature and uneven wear and tear on the new and remaining three wheels. Even replacing a single worn out tire with a new one, could mess with the handling of the vehicle because of the different tread depths.

Can you mix tires with different speed ratings?

Just remember, never mix and match tires with different speed ratings on your vehicle. Vehicle handling may be affected, and the vehicle’s speed capacity is now limited to the lowest speed-rated tire. For best performance, it is recommended that the same size and type of tire be used on all four-wheel positions.

Are mismatched tires safe?

When rotating tires with different tread depths which axle should have the tires with the deepest tread?

Make sure the tires have uniform tread depths, particularly across an axle. The customer should be told that if the difference in tread depth between the front and rear tires is more than 2/32 of an inch, the tires with the deepest tread should be placed on the rear axle.

What is a good tread depth for used tires?

Used tires tread can be up to 90\%, but the average is 6-8/32”. Tires in good condition should have a minimum of 6/32” to be useful, or 4/32” if the tire is 13-14”. The average legal minimum tread depth is 2/32”, but driving becomes unsafe with such a tread.