Should You Replace All Four Tires at Once? Pros & Cons

Your tires are key to keeping your vehicle safe, performing well, and feeling comfortable on the road. But when one or two start to wear out or get damaged, it’s natural to wonder: should you replace all four tires at once, or is it fine to just change the ones that are knackered?
As your trusted tire shop in Surrey, BC, we’re here to break down the pros and cons of replacing all four tires—so you can make the right decision for your vehicle and your wallet.

The Pros of Replacing All Four Tires at Once

1. Even Performance Across All Wheels

When all four tires match in brand, size, tread depth, and type, your vehicle performs better—especially during quick turns, acceleration, and braking. This is even more important if you drive an all-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicle, where mismatched tires can lead to uneven power distribution and costly damage.

2. Improved Safety and Control

A full set of new or high-quality used tires provides consistent traction—essential for handling rain, snow, and ice. In places like Surrey and Vancouver where weather can be unpredictable, consistency in grip matters. If winter driving is your concern, check out our used winter tires that offer excellent performance at a budget-friendly price.

3. Better Fuel Efficiency

Uneven tire tread can make your vehicle work harder, lowering fuel efficiency. When all four tires have consistent tread and wear, your car rolls more smoothly, saving you money on gas. Want to learn how tire pressure impacts fuel economy? We’ve got a whole blog on that: The Impact of Tire Pressure on Fuel Efficiency: How to Save Money.

The Cons of Replacing All Four Tires at Once

1. Higher Upfront Cost

Let’s face it—replacing four tires at once isn’t cheap. Whether you opt for new tires or used tires for sale, the upfront cost can be substantial. However, replacing tires in pairs or individually may end up costing more in the long run due to uneven wear or mechanical issues.

2. Sometimes Not Necessary

If your tires are relatively new and one is damaged beyond repair (due to a blowout or puncture), it may be more practical to replace just one or two—as long as the tread depth is similar. We always recommend checking your tire tread depth to determine whether it's safe to keep driving on the older ones.

When Is It Okay to Replace Just One or Two Tires?

Here’s a quick guideline:

• For front-wheel-drive (FWD) cars: You’re better off replacing tires in pairs—either the front two or the back two, depending on which ones are more worn out.

• Rear-wheel-drive (RWD): Also replace in pairs.

• All-wheel-drive (AWD): Always replace all four unless the difference in tread depth is minimal (usually within 2/32”).

If you’re just swapping out one or two tires, ensure they’re the same size, type, and tread pattern as the others. Also, make sure to get your tires rotated and balanced afterwards to keep wear nice and even in the long run.

Consider High-Quality Used Tires to Save Money

If cost is holding you back from a full set replacement, don’t worry—Country Tire has you covered with a large inventory of premium used tires in Surrey. You can even find hot deals on sets of four used winter or all-season tires, making your investment easier on your budget.
Need help spotting good ones? Check out our blog on how to find high-quality used tires.

Final Thoughts

Replacing all four tires at once is ideal for performance, safety, and longevity—but it’s not always necessary. The key is evaluating your tread depth, drive type, and budget. At Country Tire, we’re here to help you make the right call, whether you're considering new tires or top-condition used tires for sale.
Book your tire inspection or replacement with us today using our easy online booking tool—or contact us for expert advice!