Do AWD tires need to be replaced at the same time?

Usually, yes: on all-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicles, you should replace all four tires together so their rolling circumference closely matches. Many automakers and tire experts allow replacing fewer than four only if the remaining tires are extremely close in size—typically within about 2/32 inch (1.6 mm) of tread depth difference or roughly 1% (about 0.25 inch in circumference) of each other—otherwise you risk drivetrain wear, handling issues, and potential warranty problems.

Why matching tires matter on AWD

AWD systems rely on all four tires rotating at nearly the same speed. Even small differences in rolling circumference—caused by new-vs-worn tread, mixing models, or wrong sizes—force the center differential or clutch pack to constantly “slip,” generating heat and stress. Over time, that can damage expensive components, trigger warning lights, and degrade stability and traction control performance.

What automakers and tire experts recommend

Industry guidance is consistent: use four identical tires (same size, brand, model, load/speed rating) with closely matched wear on AWD vehicles. If you must replace fewer than four, measurements must confirm the remaining tires are nearly the same rolling size as the new ones. Exact tolerances vary by manufacturer, so always check your owner’s manual or a dealer service bulletin first.

Typical tolerances used in the industry

The following figures summarize common thresholds many shops and OEMs use when evaluating whether fewer than four tires may be replaced on an AWD vehicle.

• Tread-depth difference: Keep all four tires within about 2/32 inch (1.6 mm) of each other.
• Rolling circumference difference: Keep within roughly 0.25 inch (6 mm) in circumference, or about 1% rolling radius.
• Tire matching: Use the same brand, model, size, load/speed rating, and construction across all four positions.
• Mixing policies: Avoid mixing summer/all-season/winter types or run-flat with non–run-flat on the same vehicle unless the OEM explicitly permits it.

These benchmarks help ensure the AWD system doesn’t work overtime to compensate for size mismatches, preserving both performance and component longevity.

When you can replace fewer than four

There are specific situations where replacing two—or even one—tire can be acceptable on an AWD vehicle, provided the rolling size remains within tolerance and the tires are otherwise well-matched.

• Minor wear on the remaining tires: If the existing tires are nearly new, a single replacement can be viable when measurements confirm an extremely small difference.
• Tire shaving: New tires can be professionally shaved to match the tread depth of the remaining tires, helping meet circumference tolerances.
• Pair replacement: Replacing two tires is sometimes acceptable if the other two are within the tolerance band. Install the new pair on the rear axle for stability, even on AWD.
• OEM-staggered setups: Some performance AWD models use different front/rear sizes by design; follow the OEM’s prescribed sizes and replacement rules.
• Temporary spare use: Space-saver spares are for low speed/short distance only; replace or repair and restore four matched tires promptly.

If any measurement falls outside tolerance—or you can’t match brand/model—replacing all four is the safest and often the most cost-effective choice over time.

How to decide: a quick checklist

Use this step-by-step process to determine whether you can replace fewer than four tires without risking your AWD system.

1. Measure each tire’s tread depth with a gauge at multiple points and average the readings.
2. Compare the deepest and shallowest tires; if the spread exceeds about 2/32 inch, plan on replacing or shaving to match.
3. Confirm tire specs: same brand, model, size, load/speed rating, and construction for all four.
4. Check your owner’s manual or dealer guidance for AWD-specific tolerances and any warranty stipulations.
5. If replacing two, mount the new pair on the rear axle to reduce oversteer risk and improve wet traction stability.
6. Align the vehicle and reset/initialize TPMS as required; schedule regular rotations to keep wear even.

Following these steps protects the AWD hardware and maintains predictable handling, especially in wet, snowy, or emergency maneuvers.

Risks of mixing uneven tires on AWD

Running mismatched or unevenly worn tires can lead to problems that outweigh any short-term savings from replacing fewer tires.

• Drivetrain stress: Continuous slip in center differentials or clutch packs can cause overheating and premature wear.
• Electronics conflicts: ABS and stability control may interpret rotational-speed differences as faults, reducing effectiveness.
• Handling imbalance: Different grip levels front to rear can induce oversteer/understeer and longer stopping distances.
• Warranty concerns: OEMs may deny related AWD or differential claims if tire mismatch contributed to failure.
• Higher fuel use and heat: The system’s constant correction can waste energy and build heat.

Because AWD components are costly, maintaining closely matched tires is a prudent safeguard against expensive repairs.

Maintenance tips to avoid premature replacement

Good tire care minimizes tread-depth differences so you can replace sets together and extend service life.

• Rotate tires regularly, typically every 5,000–7,500 miles (or per the manual), to equalize wear.
• Keep pressures at OEM specs; check monthly and before long trips. Under/overinflation accelerates uneven wear.
• Get alignment checks annually or with any pull, vibration, or uneven wear pattern.
• Avoid mixing brands/models; even identical sizes can have different actual diameters.
• Replace earlier in wet/snow regions: 4/32 inch is advisable for wet; 5/32 inch for snow performance.

Consistent maintenance helps keep all four tires within tight tolerances, which is essential for AWD health and safety.

Cost-saver strategies

If you’re concerned about the expense of four-at-once replacements, these approaches can help manage costs without risking your AWD system.

• Ask about tire shaving to match new tires to lightly worn ones instead of buying a full set.
• Use road-hazard protection and pro-rated warranties to offset early replacements due to punctures.
• Buy in sets when possible to access bundle discounts and ensure perfect matching.
• Rotate on schedule to maximize even wear, reducing the chance you’ll need four tires prematurely.

Thoughtful planning often reduces lifetime tire costs while preserving AWD integrity.

Summary

For AWD vehicles, replacing all four tires together is the safest default because even small differences in rolling size can strain the drivetrain and compromise handling. Some manufacturers allow replacing fewer than four only when tread depths and rolling circumferences are nearly identical—often within about 2/32 inch or roughly 1%—and tire brand/model match across the axle. If you must replace fewer than four, verify tolerances, consider tire shaving, mount any new pair on the rear, and follow your owner’s manual. Regular rotation, correct pressure, and alignments keep wear even and help you replace sets together with confidence.

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. 

How often should you change AWD tires?

How often should you replace tires on an AWD vehicle? AWD tires should typically be replaced every 30,000 to 50,000 miles or when they wear down to 3/32 of an inch, depending on wear and driving conditions.

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. 

Why do you have to replace all four tires on an AWD car?

Using tires with varying tread life on an all-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicle can lead to transmission problems. The rear tires will rotate at a different speed compared to the front tires, which can create issues within the transfer case of the transmission, resulting in rapid gear wear.