I own a 2004 WRX STi.
I put my winter wheels/tires on and noticed that one tire is a bit damaged on the sidewall. The tires aren't much worn down yet, so I'm wondering, if I need to replace it, how many to replace? Can I get away with replacing just one tire, given that the AWD's pretty good, or must I replace two to make the wear match perfectly somehow? (I'll replace with exactly the size/model of the three undamaged tires.)
-- Mark
How many miles on the winter tires? If the circumference isn't more than 1/4" different (read that on some tech board - you might want to confirm it) you only need to replace the one tire.
If the circumference is too far off, you might be able to find a shop that will "shave" the tire down to match. You only need to match the tire on the other side of the car, not all three.
Ragnar writes: (snip)
Ah, thanks, great.
-- Mark
Subaru specifies that all four tires must have a rolling circumference within 1/4". That is circumference, NOT tread depth. It's always best to replace them in sets of four, unless the remaining tires are nearly new.
I replaced one on my STi with no ill effects. The remaining three ties had about 75% tread left. Any more and it was recommended to replace two or shave the new one
On my 215/60/16 tire a 1/4 inch circumference difference = between
2/32 & 3/32 inch difference in tread depth. This of course is for the same size & model tire from the same manufacture.Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.
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