Question for Tire EXPERTS
Looking for facts - not guesses. In the event of a flat tire, What are the ramifications of using a same spec tire of a different brand but that has an outer diameter up to 1/2 " less than the origin...
Forum Discussion
et2 wrote:
Replacement tires on any axle, must be of the same manufacturer. The
brand, model, size, and load range and must have a load rated carrying capacity equal to or greater than the original equipment tires.
Mixing tires on any axle of a different brand, model, size, load rating and load range can cause unusual handling and uneven braking due to different traction coefficient and could result in sudden tire failure or loss of control due to non-symmetrical handling.
IMO, this is good advice. (reading your owners manual usually is) In addition to those who mentioned other specific driveability issues, especially on steering axles, different manufacturers build their tire sidewalls and treads differently and they aren't necessarily symmetrical. When you mismatch tires you may find that one tire applies more side force (lateral force in either direction) than the other. This can generate an offset lateral load on the axle causing the vehicle to pull left or right. Sometimes it can be corrected with alignment or air pressure, but it's really annoying to drive a vehicle that constantly pulls left or right, even slightly. And, . . . . it's dangerous.
Chum lee
