Sometimes mixing brands and models on your car is unavoidable. While having a completely matching set is advisable, often you can only use alternative tires to replace your current tires.
But, is mixing tire models and brands a good idea? Let's see!
Can You Mix Different Tire Brands on the Same Car?
Yes, you can mix different tire brands on the same car, as long as you follow a few simple guidelines. Obviously, completely versatile tire models should not be used on one vehicle, and car manufacturers often do not recommend this practice. Yet, it is still possible.
Do All Four Tires Need to Match?
No, the four tires on your vehicle do not need to exactly match. However, mounting identical tires on the front and rear axles respectively will help to improve the vehicle's performance. As long as the two tires on the same axle are similar enough, there should be no issues.
Do You Need Identical Tires on the Same Axle?
Yes, it is advisable to use identical tires on one axle. Whether that is the rear axle or front axle, the best practice is to keep the two tires as close as possible in regard to tire performance categories, tread depths, and tread patterns. In this manner, you can mix tire brands on your car.
Front and Rear Axle Tires: Do They Need to Match?
There is no straightforward way to answer this, as it greatly depends on the wheel drive of the vehicle.
Four-wheel-drive vehicles need all four tires to match! This is because the vehicle transmits the driving forces equally between the four wheels' positions. Therefore, all four tires play a role in the vehicle's performance.
However, with rear- or front-wheel-drive vehicles it differs. With such vehicles, the majority of the driving forces are concentrated on one tire pair - either the front tires or the rear tires.
For this reason, the tires mounted on one axle should match as close as possible. Choose equivalent tires, even if you decide to mix brands. Even if only two tires are matching, you can still make sure all four mounted on the vehicle are wearing evenly.
Frequently tire rotation will place the tires onto a new wheel position which helps with their wear characteristics. Therefore, rotate tires at 5,000 mileage intervals to increase their service life.
Should You Mix Tires?
Well, yes and no.
You can mix tires and brands on your vehicle, as long as you follow some baseline rules. New tires should not be mounted with worn-out ones, for example.
However, the minimalistic details between different tire models are sometimes tricky to follow. It is important to know your tires to correctly mix tires. A tire size guide might be the best place to start your learning curve.
Tires With Different Tread Depth
Tire wear is a big component when deciding on mixing tires. Maybe you have worn tires on the front axle, but the rear tires are still good, and switching only two tires seems reasonable.
Well, when it is done correctly, it is possible as long as the vehicle's tires wear evenly. Generally speaking, different tread depths can be mounted on the same vehicle as long as the variety of the remaining tread depth is not more than 2/32" between the tires. Any more than that can ruin the vehicle's handling.
Rotate tires frequently to equalize tire wear on all four tires.
Different Tire Performance Categories
Leading vehicle manufacturers do not recommend mixing versatile performance tires on the vehicle. This is due to the fact that alternative tires do not offer the same traction and driving durability.
Do not mix tires in this manner. Be sure to mount the same tires on all four of the vehicle's wheel positions. Even if the tires are not identical, they should still offer the same performing and handling capabilities.
Tires With Different Load Index
Load index and speed rating are two important performance capabilities that each tire has to offer. But as long as you are reasonable when mixing tires on your car it won't cause an issue.
Tire or vehicle manufacturer recommendations do not suggest mounting tires with different load index and speed rating markings. However, as long as the difference is not too much, they will be able to safely perform.
In other words, tires with similar load indexes will offer almost identical load capacity. Therefore, as long as the load index is close enough, they will offer a safer performance.
Tires With Different Speed Ratings
As long as the difference is not too big, speed ratings can be mixed. However, be reasonable when doing so. Keep in mind the tires' capabilities. They are marked with a speed rating for a reason!
H- and V-rated tires can be mixed since the difference between them is only 19 mph. Yet, W and T speed-rated models should not be mounted on the same vehicle. When speed ratings are mixed, be sure that you don't drive above the weaker tire's speed durability.
Staggered Tire Sizes
Unless your vehicle is a staggered one that requires differently sized tires on the front and rear axles, do not mix tire sizes. Mount the same size on all four tires, even if they are not the same tire brand.
If a vehicle's tires are too small or too large, they will hinder its performance. Larger sizes will cause the tire to rub against the vehicle when cornering, while smaller tires will not provide the performing durability necessary. Therefore, avoid mixing tires in this manner.
Tires for Versatile Seasons
If restoring poor weather traction is one of your main concerns, do not use various weather tires on your vehicle's different wheel positions. Summer, all season, and winter tires are not matching tires.
In other words, even if you do not use the same brand on your vehicle, their weather capabilities should be identical. You should not mix winter tires with summer or all season tires, as they will ruin the car's traction and performance.
Run-flat and Non-run-flat Tires
Do NOT mix run-flat tires and standard tires!
Run-flat models are manufactured with a heavier internal structure, which is able to offer limited, temporary performance in case of air pressure loss. Even if they are the same size as traditional tires, they will not offer the same performance capabilities.
Mixing run-flat tires with regular tires can ruin the vehicle's handling balance and overall controllability.
Tire Mixture Exceptions
Tires With Different Tread Patterns
Each vehicle manufacturer recommends mounting tires with similar tread patterns on your car. This is to ensure vehicle stability throughout its performance.
There is a right and wrong way to go about mixing tread patterns. Obviously, the main tread design needs to be similar. Symmetric, asymmetric, and directional tread designs should not be mixed on the car. Yet, as long as the main pattern is the same, the difference between their small tread details will not create a big issue.
Tire Sizes
As we have mentioned before, some vehicles require different tire sizes on their rear and front axles. However, finding the exact match for two versatile tire sizes can be challenging.
Therefore, if you follow the previously mentioned guidelines for tread pattern, tread depth, etc.Priority Tire's tire rack might just have the perfect new tires for you.
Bonus: Spare Tires
If you use donut tires as replacement tires, they can only be used for a limited time period. However, a full-sized spare can be used as long as it is similar to your other tires. Using replacement tires reduces the possibility of the vehicle getting stranded on the road, therefore, even if it is not identical, it will work.
FAQs
What time of year is best to buy tires? ›
Although you should get new tires any time they need to be replaced, in general, the best month to buy tires is either October or April.
How long should tires last? ›On average, people drive between 12,000 to 15,000 miles a year, which means the average good quality all-season tire will last somewhere between three and five years, depending on maintenance, driving style and conditions, etc.
Why are tires so expensive? ›The cost of car tires is high because they need to they are made using not just rubber, but also steel, some durable materials for longer service life, and nylon.
How Much Should 4 new tires cost? ›How much does a set of four tires cost? The price of a set of four tires will depend on the size and type of tire, but the median price for four tires is between $460 and $1,280. If you have smaller tires and decide to go with a cheaper option, you could pay below that range.
Should you always buy 4 tires at a time? ›It's always best to replace all 4 tires at the same time. This is because all 4 tires spin independently of one another, and different tread depths and/or styles can cause them to spin at different speeds. That could potentially damage the drive train, and possibly affect an indirect TPMS system if the vehicle has one.
How often should I rotate my tires? ›How Often Should You Get a Tire Rotation? A good rule of thumb is every 5,000 miles. Depending on your vehicle, driving style, and tire type, you may need to rotate your tires more or less often.
How long should 4 tires last? ›The straightforward answer is “it depends.” A normal set of tires should last for 60,000 to 75,000 miles, or about four to five years. But there are a few key factors that will affect your tires' lifespan. Keep scrolling to learn more.
How often should new tires be rotated? ›About every 7,500 miles or 6 months.
Most vehicle manufacturers recommend that you get your tires rotated approximately every 7,500 miles or six months. However, some vehicles are exceptions and it's always best to refer to your owner's manual. This number can change depending on how, where, and what you drive.
Inexpensive tires will generally be in the range of $50 - $150 each. Moderately priced tires will usually be in the range of $100 - $300 each. High-end tires (ultra-high performance or specialty off-road tires) can be $300 - $1000 each.
How much should I spend on tires? ›The general pricing for inexpensive tires will be $50 to $150 each, $100 to $300 each for moderately priced tires, and $300 to $1000 each for high-end. Based on the median price of tires in the United States, you can expect to spend a little over $600 for a set of 4 new tires, not including the price of installation.
Does tire brand really matter? ›
Everything from tread design to rubber compounds is the product of intensive work, and an expensive premium tire from a large manufacturer will provide vastly better performance across a broader range of road conditions than a cheap budget tire from an unknown company.
Is Costco the cheapest place to buy tires? ›Low prices
Costco tires are generally cheaper than buying from other major retailers, including Walmart. Best of all, Costco often offers coupons to reduce tire prices further. And the published retail pricing includes all shipping and handling costs so you don't need to worry about surprise add-on expenses.
- Michelin. 4.5. Best Tires Overall. 1889. 5.0. ...
- Goodyear. 4.5. Best for Durability. 1898. 5.0. ...
- Cooper. 4.0. Most Affordable. 1914. 4.0. ...
- Bridgestone. 4.0. Best for Run-Flat Tires. 1931. 4.5. ...
- Pirelli. 4.0. Best for High-Performance. 1872. 4.5. ...
- BFGoodrich. 4.0. 1870. 4.0. ...
- Continental. 4.0. 1871. 4.5. ...
- Yokohama. 4.0. 1917. 4.0.
To achieve optimum vehicle handling, ride comfort, and road traction, it's generally recommended that you have all four tires replaced at the same time.
Is it OK to change 2 tires only? ›If two of your tires wear out faster, it may only be necessary to replace those two instead of replacing all four. If you do, it's important to have the two new tires installed on the back and the partially worn tires moved to the front – even on front-wheel-drive vehicles.
Is it OK to only replace 1 tire? ›Tread of other tires: If the other three tires are fairly new, you may be able to get by with just replacing one or two tires without drastically impacting performance and safety. As a rule of thumb, if the other 2 or 3 tires are worn down more than 4/32 of an inch of tread, you should replace all 4 tires.
Should you have your better tires on the front or back? ›According to Tire Review, new tires should always go in the back. Rear tires provide the vehicle stability, and if they have little tread, then stability is lost.
How often should I get an alignment? ›Typically, it is recommended to get your wheels aligned every 2 to 3 years. However, to ensure the optimal safety of your car, yourself and others around you, it is best to opt for a wheel alignment every time you go to change your oil of the vehicle.
Do I need an alignment after tire rotation? ›A rotation should be done approximately every 6,000 to 8,000 miles (check your owner's manual for the recommendation for your vehicle). An alignment only needs to be performed if your vehicle has come out of alignment.
What happens if you never rotate your tires? ›Without regular rotations, tire treads can wear down unevenly to create a rough and potentially unstable driving surface. In the end, this type of tire tread wear may decrease your safety on the road – think heat buildup, hydroplaning, poor traction in snow and ice, and an increased risk of punctures and blowouts.
Which tires last the longest? ›
- General Grabber X3.
- Longest lasting all weather tires.
- Michelin CrossClimate2.
- Michelin Defender LTX M/S.
- Continental CrossContact LX25.
- Continental TerrainContact H/T.
- Michelin XPS Rib.
- Michelin X-Ice Snow.
The best approach, though, is to replace all four if the tread on the old tires is significantly worn. One way to avoid buying more than one tire is to have the tread on the new one “shaved” so it matches the depth of the others. Some tire dealers will shave off some tread depth on a special machine for a fee.
Do tires last 50k miles? ›Your tires should last 50,000 to 60,000 miles on average. But that really depends on the manufacturer. Some manufacturers build their tires to last up to 80,000 miles, while some design their tires to last as little as 30,000 miles. You can see how many miles to expect out of a tire by checking its treadwear rating.
How do you know when your tires need balancing? ›What Are the Signs That Your Tires Needs Balancing? Uneven tire wear and vibration in your steering wheel, floorboard, or seat can signal it's time for tire balancing. You may also want to have your tires balanced during a tire rotation, after a flat tire repair, or as part of your scheduled maintenance.
Is it OK to rotate tires once a year? ›We suggest you follow the recommended schedule outlined in your owner's manual, but rotate the tires (and change the oil) at least once a year. You don't have to go to a car dealership to have a regular rotation done, and many tire dealers and other repair shops will perform both jobs for about $30 total.
What month are tire sales? ›October and April are the two months that stores have major tire sales. Online, you can find tire sales sporadically throughout the year.
What time of year is best to buy winter tires? ›Fall Is the Best Time to Buy Tires for Winter - Consumer Reports. Ad-free.
Do tire prices go up in winter? ›Generally, a set of winter tires cost about the same price as a good set of all-season tires.
Is Costco best for tires? ›So what's your best option if you're looking to buy a new set of tires? Surprisingly enough, it might be Costco tires. According to the consumer website Clark.com, Costco came out on top in a survey of 50,000 Consumer Reports subscribers who recently bought tires.
When you buying 2 new tires Where should? ›According to Tire Review, new tires should always go in the back. Rear tires provide the vehicle stability, and if they have little tread, then stability is lost.
Do new tires increase gas mileage? ›
The short answer: yes. Tires can make a big difference in the number of miles a driver gets to a tank of gas. In fact, 20% to 30% of a vehicle's fuel consumption and 24% of road vehicle CO2 emissions are tire-related.
Is it better to buy 2 tires at a time? ›“If the tires are all approaching 40 to 50 percent worn, I would recommend you buy two of the same tires you already have and put the two new tires on the rear axle.” Placing the new tires on the rear axle helps maintain safer and more predictable handling.
How many tires should you buy at a time? ›Reasons to Avoid Replacing Only One Tire
To achieve optimum vehicle handling, ride comfort, and road traction, it's generally recommended that you have all four tires replaced at the same time.
Winter/Snow Tires Cost Estimates
Costs vary by brand, but, without discounts, you can expect car snow tires to run about $150 each and SUV/truck snow tires to go for about $200 each. For a car, that's $600 for a full set; $750 if you decide to get a spare.
Besides safety concerns, the very cheapest tires provide poor durability. If the tires are too cheap, then you will end up replacing them so often that the cost savings are lost. In addition, cheap tires lower your gas mileage and produce more noise than mid-range and higher-end tires.
Do new tires increase resale value? ›Older tires may decrease the value of the car, while newer tires can add value. Tires wear over time, which can cause cracks or bulges. If you notice these signs on the vehicle's tires, you can often negotiate a lower price because you'll have to replace the vehicle's tires soon.
Is there a tire shortage coming? ›The tire shortage goes back to a rubber shortage. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, rubber producers have not been able to plant as many new trees as they normally would. To make things worse, existing trees are suffering the effects of leaf disease and flooding, which is causing the supply to drop dramatically.
Is it cheaper to buy all 4 tires? ›Tires are periodically less expensive per tire when purchased in a set of four. Tire manufacturers often have special discounts that are only eligible for full sets of tires.
Do you need an alignment after replacing all 4 tires? ›We recommend an alignment after the installation of new tires. This helps you get the most life from your new tires. Wheel alignment checks are always advised after a significant impact or uneven tire wear is detected.