When one tyre is worn out or damaged, the obvious question is how many to replace. The answer depends on how worn the others are, which wheels drive the car, and what you're matching against. A full set of four isn't always needed, and we won't sell you one if it isn't.

When one tyre is enough

If the other tyre on the same axle is fairly new, a single replacement can be fine, as long as it matches in size and construction and is close in tread depth. That's where a good used tyre often earns its place. It can be a closer match to a part-worn partner than a brand-new tyre would be.

When a pair makes sense

Tyres on the same axle should match, so the car brakes and corners evenly. If one tyre on an axle is finished and the other is well worn, replace both. On most two-wheel-drive cars, buying a pair at a time is a perfectly sensible way to spread the cost.

Where the new pair goes surprises people. Most tyre makers advise fitting the newer tyres to the rear axle, even on a front-wheel-drive car. Rear tyres with less tread are more likely to lose grip in the wet, and a car that slides from the back is much harder to catch than one that slides at the front.

When to do all four

  • All four are near the end of their tread — doing them together costs the same per tyre and saves a second visit.
  • All-wheel-drive and many 4WD vehicles — a big difference in tread depth between tyres means different rolling sizes, which can put strain on the drivetrain. Some manufacturers specify that all four are replaced together or kept closely matched, so check your owner's manual.
  • The tyres are old — if they're approaching the age limit tyre makers advise, the remaining two won't be far behind.
  • You're changing tyre type — say, from highway to all-terrain on a ute — which has to be done as a full set.

Get the alignment done at the same time

If one tyre has worn out much faster than the others, there's usually a reason, and most often it's wheel alignment. Fitting new tyres without checking it means the new ones will go the same way. We fit, balance and align in the same visit.

Not sure whether you need two or four? Bring the car to 151 Totara Street, Mount Maunganui. We'll measure what you've got and quote both options. Call +64 29 777 7122.