Where to Replace and Install Two New Tires - V&F Auto Inc

Where to Replace and Install Two New Tires

We always recommend installing tires in sets of four—changing out a complete set will improve handling, comfort, and performance. However, if you prefer to replace tires in pairs, we can make that work! If they are the same size as the tires already on your vehicle, we recommend you install both new tires on the rear axle. Here's why.

Why the rear axle?

When tires are replaced in pairs, the newest tires should always be installed on the rear axle, and the partially worn tires should be moved to the front. Driving with newer tires on the rear axle can help the vehicle to maintain control on wet roads because the tires with deeper treads are more likely to resist hydroplaning. When front tires have less tread than the tires on the rear axle, the vehicle is generally considered easier to control, since sliding would likely be the result of understeer –which is easier for the driver to control by decreasing throttle. If worn tires are placed on the rear axle and a slide occurs, it’s likely the result of oversteer (where the rear of the vehicle continues to move straight ahead). Oversteering is generally harder to recover from and decreasing throttle may actually amplify the negative effects of the oversteer.
Learn More: Why A Good Set of Tires Is Crucial to Vehicle Performance

Tire Performance

Tires are an often overlooked contributor to car performance, but they have a big impact on vehicle health and safety. As the only point of contact between the road and your car, they influence turn control, ability to break, and even how smooth your ride is. To ensure your tires are in optimal driving condition, here are a few things you should monitor:
  • Pressure: Tires can lose up to one pound per square inch (psi) of air every month. Most experts recommend checking all tires, including your a spare, about once a month and more often during colder weather.
  • Tread: Through normal wear and tear, a tire’s tread is worn off, limiting traction and making punctures more likely. Treads should be visually inspected regularly and professionally checked about once a year for uneven or irregular wear, as well as cuts, punctures, and bruises along sidewalls. Tires should be replaced as soon as possible when worn or damaged, to avoid a costly blowout.
  • Rotation and Alignment: Each tire on a car wears at a different rate. By moving tires to equalize wear, rotation can extend the life of all tires by several thousand miles. Most mechanics recommend rotating tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles to promote uniform tire wear.

New Tires At V&F Auto

At V&F Auto, we offer:
  • Tire Sales
  • Tire Installations
  • Tire Rotation
  • Tire Balancing
  • Tire Replacement
  • Wheel Alignment
  • Tire Air Pressure Checks
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Repair & Service
Our expert mechanics can help you choose the right tire type for your price point, driving habits, and most common driving conditions. Call us at (413)314-2280 or schedule an appointment online.   new tires

Written by Nicole Palange