All-wheel drive (AWD) cars are great for unexpected driving conditions such as heavy rain, snow, or ice. High-profile AWD cars also make the ideal off-roading vehicle. However, AWD cars have some special considerations when it comes to tire replacements. If you’ve ever wondered, “Do you really need to replace all 4 tires on an AWD car at the same time?”, we’ve got your answer!

Do You Really Need to Replace All 4 Tires on an AWD Car at the Same Time?

Getting a flat tire is frustrating for any driver. It’s an inconvenience that also comes with an unexpected cost: replacing a tire. For drivers of AWD cars, this cost is quadrupled because all four tires need to be replaced.

If you’re wondering, ‘Can’t I just replace one tire?’, the answer is unfortunately no.

An AWD car’s differential and computer work in tandem to send precise amounts of torque to each wheel. The computer adjusts constantly when the car is in motion to accommodate changes in the road. In essence, power is sent to the wheel or wheels that need it the most. The end result is that AWD cars have better traction and control in poor driving conditions.

This same system relies on the tires being the same size to take accurate readings. Even when purchasing a new tire of the same brand and measurements as the tires on the car, the tires already on the car will have worn down to a different size than the new tire.

Though small, any difference in tire size can be significant:

2. The vehicle’s computer can’t accommodate variance of the new tire size, and will think instead that the axle is slipping. This puts additional stress on the differential and could burn out the drivetrain prematurely.
3. The new tire will undergo fewer revolutions while the old tires spin at a faster rate. This adds a lot of stress and builds up excess heat on the vehicle’s axles as well as the transmission. This could lead to expensive repairs in the long run.

There are some exceptions to this rule. Consult your owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer with any questions you may have.

Why Don’t Tires Wear Evenly on AWD Cars?

You may have heard that tires do not wear evenly on AWD cars. In many cases, front tires do wear more quickly than rear tires.

In normal driving conditions, the front wheels are doing the most work and require the most power. The car’s computer will direct most of the power to these two tires. As a result, they have a tendency to wear down more quickly than the rear tires.

You can minimize the variance of tire size by getting your tires rotated regularly.

AWD Maintenance and Repair at T3 Atlanta

Although T3 Atlanta does not perform tire work, we can diagnose and repair issues with the powertrain, axles, transmission, and more. We are experts at Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, and Infiniti repair. Visit us at one of our two convenient Atlanta locations!