Radial tires provide good handling and fuel efficiency, but must be matched in pairs for safety and stable handling. By “matched pairs” we mean that the tires to be matched are both on the front or on the back axle. Tires are matched not only in size, but also in tread style, tire characteristics (speed and temperature ratings – see UTQG), and amount of wear. For safety reasons, and in some cases due to tire dealer policy, you must buy 2 or more tires. Before buying new tires learn about policies and warranties offered by tire dealers, and see if they have discounts, used, or “take-off” tires.

Guidelines for Tire Mixing - Tire dealers will consider the following when recommending the number of tires to buy:

•  You should never mix tires of different speed ratings on your vehicle – all axles must have the same      speed- rated tires – regardless of tire or material

•  Tread-wear difference between the new tire and an old tire on the same axle should be no more than 2/32nd of    an inch. If there is, you may need to buy 2 tires

•  If the tread-wear difference between the new tire and any old tire is less than 4/32 of an inch, you need to buy    at least 1 additional tire

•  Snow tires must be mounted on the rear axle, so if your vehicle is front-wheel drive you will need 4 snow tires

•  If your vehicle has a full-size spare, you may need to replace it also (may be a tire dealer policy, so check     first).