Can I have different tyres on my car?
Monday 30th September 2024
When replacing a worn or punctured tyre, you can be tempted to change it with your spare tyre – regardless of the type of tyre it is. However, it is important to understand how mixing tyres can affect the vehicle’s balance, control and safety.
Our article answers your questions about mixing tyres on the same axle, alongside mixing different tyre sizes and different types of seasonal tyres.
Is it possible to mix the tyres on my car?
Ideally, all 4 tyres should be the same size, tread design and brand. However, there are specific circumstances where mixing tyres can be acceptable, such as budget constraints or lack of tyre availability.
To maintain safety and control of your vehicle, you must fit a pair of tyres with the same tread patterns and brand on the same axle. For example, the two rear tyres must have the same brand and tread pattern, while the two front tyres can be different to the rear tyres but need to be similar.
That’s why it is recommended you should change your tyres in pairs.
Can you have different size tyres, front and back?
You can have different-sized tyres on the front or rear axle if the suspension geometry is set up to accommodate it.
There are vehicles that are factory-fitted with different sizes between the rear and front axles. The mix is designed to the car’s specifications and must be carefully replicated when replacing tyres on this type of vehicle. Refer to the vehicle’s logbook for the manufacturer’s recommendation when mixing various tyre sizes between the front and rear.
Can you have different tyres on the same axle?
No, it is especially dangerous to mix tyres across the axle, and it is strongly recommended you don’t do it. It is illegal to mix cross-ply and radial-ply tyres across the same axle in the UK.
Can you mix winter and summer tyres?
No, you should not mix your winter tyres with summer or all-season tyres. This is because the tyre compounds and tread patterns are designed to work in a specific way, depending on the season. If you pair a winter tyre with a summer tyre, the tyres will work against each other, leading to an imbalance in the vehicle and a loss of control that will compromise the vehicle’s safety and may invalidate the car’s insurance in the case of an accident.
Are you unsure about which tyres to use on your car? You should contact the manufacturer or read the vehicle’s handbook, which outlines the recommended vehicle tyre specifications. Our guide covers what you need to know about finding the best tyres for your car.
Alternatively, browse our range of tyres to buy online at your local Formula One Autocentres branch today.
