Can You Change Only Two Tires on an AWD SUV?

Yes, but only if the rolling circumference of all four tires closely matches—typically within a very small tolerance such as 2/32–3/32 inch in tread-depth difference or under the manufacturer’s specified circumference variance (some, like Subaru, stipulate no more than about 0.25 inch). If you must replace only two, they should be identical to the existing pair and mounted on the rear axle. Otherwise, replacing all four is the safer, recommended choice to avoid drivetrain damage and handling issues.

Why AWD Is Sensitive to Tire Mismatches

All-wheel-drive systems rely on similar wheel speeds at all corners. Even small differences in tire diameter make one axle rotate faster than the other, forcing center differentials, clutches, or couplers to slip constantly. Over time, that can overheat fluids, accelerate wear, trigger warning lights, and—in worst cases—damage transfer cases or center couplings. The result can be repair bills in the thousands, which is why many automakers and tire experts push for matched tires on AWD vehicles.

What Automakers and Tire Experts Allow

Most manufacturers insist on four matching tires (same size, brand, model, load/speed ratings) and set strict limits on allowable rolling-circumference differences. Policies vary by brand and AWD design, but common guidance includes keeping tread-depth differences under 2/32–3/32 inch or ensuring circumference variance stays well below 1%. Some brands are even stricter: Subaru, for example, has long specified that all four tires’ circumferences be within about a quarter inch of each other. Because new SUV tires often start at 10/32–12/32 inch of tread, a partially worn set can easily exceed these limits when paired with two brand-new tires.

Acceptable Mismatch Ranges at a Glance

The following points summarize typical industry thresholds you’ll see referenced by tire retailers and service departments.

• Tread-depth difference across tires: usually no more than 2/32–3/32 inch.
• Rolling circumference variance: commonly well under 1%; certain OEMs specify about 0.25 inch maximum difference.
• All four tires should match brand, model, size, load and speed ratings, and tread pattern.
• If replacing fewer than four, tire “shaving” to match remaining tread depth is often recommended.

These thresholds are intentionally conservative because modern AWD clutches and couplers are sensitive to continuous slip. When in doubt, follow the stricter OEM spec for your vehicle.

How to Decide: Two Tires or All Four

Your decision hinges on how worn your current tires are and how tightly your AWD system’s manufacturer limits mismatches. The more worn the existing pair, the more likely you’ll need all four replaced or the new pair shaved to match.

Cases Where Replacing Only Two Can Be Acceptable

Under certain conditions, replacing just two tires won’t unduly stress the AWD system.

• The remaining two tires are very lightly worn—within about 2/32–3/32 inch of new—and meet your vehicle’s circumference tolerance.
• The replacement tires are exactly the same brand, model, size, and ratings as the existing pair.
• A tire shop can shave the new tires to closely match the tread depth of the remaining tires.
• The two new (or shaved) tires are installed on the rear axle for stability, even on AWD vehicles.

If you meet these criteria, you can often run two replacements without compromising the AWD system, but confirm the exact limits in your owner’s manual or with the dealer.

Replace All Four If Any of the Following Apply

In many real-world scenarios, replacing all four tires is the prudent—and sometimes required—option.

• The remaining tires are significantly worn (for example, 5/32 inch or less), or the depth/circumference difference exceeds your OEM’s limit.
• You would be mixing different brands/models or tread patterns across axles.
• Your AWD system is known to be sensitive (e.g., strict specs like some Subaru systems) or you notice binding, hopping, or driveline shudder at low speeds.
• The vehicle uses staggered fitment not designed for mismatched diameters beyond OEM-approved equivalents.

When these conditions apply, replacing all four avoids handling imbalance, uneven wear, and expensive drivetrain stress.

Measuring and Matching Tires Correctly

Before deciding, quantify the difference. Tread depth ties directly to rolling diameter: every 1/32 inch of tread depth worn off a tire reduces its radius by 1/32 inch and its diameter by 2/32 inch. Circumference changes roughly by π times the diameter change, so small depth gaps can add up quickly.

Use the following steps to assess and match your tires.

1. Inflate all tires to the vehicle’s recommended pressures and measure when cold.
2. Measure tread depth at several points across each tire and average the readings.
3. Compare against a new tire of the same model, or wrap a flexible tape around each tire to estimate circumference; alternatively, check the tire maker’s revolutions-per-mile data.
4. Verify that the difference fits within your owner’s manual limits; if none are provided, ask a dealer or trusted tire specialist.
5. If needed, request tire shaving so the new pair closely matches the remaining tires’ depth and circumference.

Documenting your measurements and shop recommendations can help protect drivetrain warranty claims, especially if your AWD system is sensitive to mismatches.

Placement, Rotation, and Alignment

Even on AWD, new or better tires go on the rear axle to promote stable, predictable handling and reduce the risk of oversteer in wet conditions. Maintain regular rotations (every 5,000–7,500 miles or as specified) to keep wear even and mismatches small. After installing tires, a fresh alignment helps prevent rapid uneven wear, and TPMS should be reset or relearned if required.

The following best practices will help extend tire life and protect your AWD system.

• Rotate on schedule to keep tread depths closely matched.
• Maintain proper cold inflation pressures and check them monthly.
• Check alignment when installing new tires or if you notice uneven wear.
• Avoid running mismatched brands or significantly different wear levels for extended periods.

Consistent maintenance minimizes rolling-radius differences and the strain they place on AWD components.

Costs and Risks

Running mismatched tires on AWD may feel fine at first but can shorten the life of transfer cases, center differentials, and clutch packs. Repairs commonly run from $1,500 to over $4,000, dwarfing the cost of an additional pair of tires. That economic calculus is why many technicians recommend four at once unless your remaining pair is nearly new and within spec.

Bottom Line

You can change only two tires on an AWD SUV if, and only if, the remaining tires closely match in rolling circumference, you use the exact same tire model, and you mount the fresher pair on the rear—ideally shaving the new ones to match if needed. If the difference exceeds your manufacturer’s tolerance, replace all four to protect your AWD system, preserve handling, and avoid costly repairs.

Summary

Replacing only two tires on an AWD SUV is sometimes acceptable but tightly constrained by OEM limits on rolling-circumference differences. When in doubt—or when the remaining tires are meaningfully worn—replace all four. If you do replace two, match the exact tire model, verify the size tolerance, consider shaving to equalize tread depth, and mount the new pair on the rear. Regular rotation, correct pressures, and timely alignment will help keep everything within spec and your AWD system healthy.

Can you change only two tires on an AWD?

While you can technically replace only two tires on an AWD vehicle, it is not recommended and can damage your drivetrain. Mismatched tread depths on AWD vehicles cause the drivetrain components to spin at different speeds, leading to excessive wear and potential damage to the transmission or differentials. It is safest to replace all four tires at once to ensure uniform tread depth and consistent rotation speeds. 
Why replacing two tires is a risk:

• Uneven wear on drivetrain components: Opens in new tabAWD systems are designed for all four wheels to rotate at the same speed. When one tire has a different tread depth, it will have a different diameter. 
• Forced rotation: Opens in new tabThe new, larger-diameter tire forces the older, worn tires to spin faster, and the older tires spin faster to keep up with the new one. 
• Excessive heat and wear: Opens in new tabThis constant difference in rotational speed creates excessive heat and stress on the transmission and differentials, which are not designed for a 100% duty cycle. 

What you should do instead:

• Replace all four tires: This is the safest option to maintain uniform tread depth and ensure the drivetrain operates as intended. 
• Consider tire shaving: If a tire has a significant puncture, you can have a new tire shaved to match the tread depth of the remaining tires. However, this reduces the lifespan of the new tire and may void its warranty. 
• Check tread depth differences: If you must replace only two, ensure the tread depth difference is very minimal, less than 2/32 of an inch. This might be an acceptable risk for a single sidewall puncture in a nearly new tire. 
• Inspect regularly: Regularly rotate your tires to ensure even wear. Manual inspection of all tires before each trip can catch issues before they lead to dangerous differences in tread wear. 

Does it make sense to only replace two tires?

“If the tires are all approaching 40 to 50 percent worn, I would recommend you buy two of the same tires you already have and put the two new tires on the rear axle.” Placing the new tires on the rear axle helps maintain safer and more predictable handling.

Do you really need to replace all four tires on AWD Reddit?

If it’s a fwd, rwd, or 4×4 vehicle you can just throw a used tire on that’s similar in tread to the other side or just replace them in pairs with matching tires. However if it’s an awd vehicle you will need to swap all 4 if not you can damage stuff and it can lead to costly repairs.

How much tread difference is too much for AWD?

For AWD vehicles, it’s recommended that all tires have a tread depth difference of no more than 2/32 to 3/32 of an inch, or about 1/4 inch difference in total tire circumference, to prevent drivetrain damage from uneven rotation speeds. Exceeding this difference can cause friction and heat, potentially leading to premature wear and major failure of expensive drivetrain components like the differentials. 
Why Tread Difference Matters in AWD Systems

• Uneven Rolling Radius: A tire’s tread depth directly affects its total diameter and circumference. 
• Drivetrain Stress: On an AWD vehicle, all four wheels are connected, and a significant tread depth difference between tires will cause them to spin at different speeds over the same distance. 
• Damage to the Center Differential: The center differential must work constantly to compensate for these speed differences, leading to excessive friction, heat, and eventual failure of this expensive component. 

Recommendations

• Check Your Owner’s Manual: The most accurate guidance for your specific vehicle will be found in its owner’s manual. 
• Replace Tires in Sets: It’s generally recommended to replace all four tires on an AWD vehicle to ensure consistent tread depth and prevent drivetrain damage. 
• Consider Tire Shaving: In some cases, new tires can be shaved down to match the existing tread depth of the other tires, though this isn’t always the best long-term solution. 
• Use a Professional Shop: A knowledgeable tire technician can measure your tire tread depth and help you determine if replacing only one or two tires is acceptable, or if all four need to be replaced.