Forum Discussion

winnietrey's avatar
winnietrey
Explorer
Feb 05, 2017

Shaving new Tire for subaru AWD

Thought I would ask this question in this forum, as from what I read here, you guys seem pretty smart on mechanics.

So here is the story. Wife picked up a large hole in the right rear on our 2015 Suby Forester ( with 15K on the clock). Tire is not reparable. So options are 1)Replace all 4 tires, or 2) Dealer says they will get same tire and shave it down so it matches wear on the other 3. They say all will be peachy.

My understanding is Suby AWD, is extremely sensitive, and if tires don't match as to size (as in tread wear), you will blow the Tranny.

Until yesterday I did not know one could shave a tire. So any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

Mod If I posted in the wrong place I apologize, please move as you see fit
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  • ChooChooMan74's avatar
    ChooChooMan74
    Explorer
    Feb 05, 2017
    I vote for a shave. Better to take the safe course and spend the few extra dollars than to replace costly drivetrain components.
  • austingta's avatar
    austingta
    Explorer
    Feb 05, 2017
    That has been done for decades to "true" an out of round tire. I'm surprised that the max 1/2 inch tread depth difference would be a problem, though.
  • winnietrey's avatar
    winnietrey
    Explorer
    Feb 05, 2017
    As an afterthought, from what I have been told, and what I have Googled . Subaru's, Are in class by themselves when it comes to this sort of thing. Other make AWD's are much more forgiving.

    I am not trying to go for the cheapest option. However if I don't have to replace the other 3 tires, and can just have them shave the one, that would seem smart to me.

    I am just concerned that shaving a tire would create a whole new set of problems. ( as in tread, would be affected, and screw up handling in an emergency situation) Which is why, I posted, to gain wisdom from you guys.

    I very much appreciate anyone who takes the time to post and for your opinion
  • coolmom42's avatar
    coolmom42
    Explorer II
    Feb 05, 2017
    If there are 15K miles on the original tires, I would go ahead and replace all of them. It's not like they are brand new. They are probably 40K mile tires so you are at almost the halfway mark.
  • jerem0621's avatar
    jerem0621
    Explorer II
    Feb 05, 2017
    Have you checked the date code on the tires to see how old the tires actually are? If they are more than 3-4 years old by the date code I'd be inclined to replace all four of them. Google how to read a tire date code if you already do not know.

    Shaving a tire sounds like a decent option as long as the mechanics do it right. If they do not, you can have some big issues which will be way more expensive than a new set of tires.

    Thanks!

    Jeremiah
  • Inlet's avatar
    Inlet
    Explorer
    Feb 05, 2017
    This also happened to me on my 2014 Subaru cross trek. The tires had 22,000 miles on them so I just replaced the set. But I did learn there is quite a market on craigslist of people selling used sets of 3 tires, from Subarus ....such as the Yokahamas . If the remaining 3 have got some life....shop for a used tire.
  • wildtoad's avatar
    wildtoad
    Explorer II
    Feb 05, 2017
    Excuse my ignorance but why would you have to replace all four? I can see getting two for the same axle.

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