Posted on 6/27/2025
All-wheel drive (AWD) vehicles are designed for superior traction, better handling, and improved safety on slippery or uneven surfaces. But they rely on a precise balance between all four wheels to function correctly. That’s why tire size, tread depth, and even wear levels need to be consistent across all tires. Replacing just one tire or mixing brands and tread patterns might seem harmless, but for AWD vehicles, it can lead to unexpected and costly issues. It’s a common question: “Do I need to replace all four tires if only one is damaged?” Let’s find out. How AWD Systems Rely on Tire Uniformity Unlike front-wheel or rear-wheel drive vehicles, AWD systems continuously distribute power between all four wheels. They do this through differentials and a transfer case that adjusts torque depending on road conditions and wheel speed. If one wheel is rotating faster or slower than the others because its tire is smaller (even slightly), the sy ... read more