Is it bad if you don't replace all 4 tires at the same time for AWD?

[zardozrdr]

I used to have an Audi and was told all 4 tires had to be replaced at the same time since it was all wheel drive.

Is this the case with V8 AWD 4runners too? Will it cause problems with the differential in the long run?

 

[midnight runner]

I haven't been specifically told that, but I would think so since there would be a fair difference in how much the front axle spins and how much the rear axle spins. I have the full time 4wd as well.

Just rotate your tires often!

 

[Mike07SE]

With AWD rotate tires often to get the best even wear as possible and when it is time to replace, yes, it is best to due all four so that their is consistentcy in size for the diffs on the same axle and the center diff controlling the split axle to axle.

 

[rook]

Any tire guy is going to tell you to replace all four. It's safe advice and he sells more tires. Truth is, the difference in revs/mile is so small that there would be little effect on the center diff. provided you stay with the same size. There are slight variations from one manufacturer to another in overall diameter of tires of the same size, as well as differences in the same tire built in different plants, all of which are bery small. For example the diameter of a 265/65/17 may be 30.6" from one mfr and 30.53" from another.

 

[Theothertyler]

:iagree:

I've also been told by numerous people that it's best to buy a matching spare and integrate it into your tire rotation. This way in the event that it needs to be used there's no issue with having significantly different tread depths messing up AWD.

 

[CJ3Flyr]

I used to have an Audi and was told all 4 tires had to be replaced at the same time since it was all wheel drive.

Is this the case with V8 AWD 4runners too? Will it cause problems with the differential in the long run?

I say 2 is fine if the new ones go on the front.

Measure from the ground to the center of the hub with 32psi in all 4 tires. The radius (effective diameter) of the front tire is smaller due to the uneven weight distribution. Minor variations are within the t-cases ability to cope.

I would stay with the same size/brand/model though. In spite of there being a standard way of measuring (P-metric system) tires do vary a good bit as others have mentioned.

The T4R has a simple, mechanical full-time 4wd with some fancy electronics (TRAC, ATRAC, VSC) laid on top of a simple but very good foundation; Torsen center-diff and regular, open diff axles. The Audi's, Honda's and other AWD cars use very advanced electronic systems, involving varying technology clutches, as the center diff and even in the axles. These are far more sensitive to slight variations in tire size than is the T4R.

As far as long-term wear is concerned, I say negligible differences by replacing 2 tires vs. 4 provided you stick with the same brand/model/size.

That's my :soapbox:




:cheers:

 

[Falls]

Your 4Runner is 4wheel drive , not all wheel drive . Tires wear differently , but replacing 2 bad ones is better than running bad tires for everyones safety.

 

[riverwolf]

An owner's manual is a terrible thing to wasted. ;-)

From page 334 of the 2K3 manual:

"When replacing a tire, use a tire of the
same size and construction, and the
same or greater load capacity as the
originally installed tires. Also, on four