Tire replacement

[JP66]

If I decide to replace my previously flat tire with 2 new tires in the rear, can they be different from the front. I have Pilot Sports all around, but can I replace the rears with Pilot Sport 2's, and leave the fronts just Pilot Sports?

Thanks.

[Loren]

From TSB 6/04 4440 Summer Tire and Wheel Summary (dated 8-10-04)...

If new tires are to be mounted or the tires of one axle are to be replaced, tires of the same make, the same type and with the same specification code must always be used on each of the two axles. If tires are replaced on one axle only, the different tread depth from that on the other axle can cause a noticeable change in the familiar handling. This is especially the case if new tires are mounted on the rear axle. This effect decreses with increasing tire mileage.

When replacing a tire on an axle, make sure that the tread depth of the new tire does not differ from that of the other tire by more than 30 %.

If a tire is damaged and it cannot be determined with absolute certainty that there is no ply damage - with all of its consequences - or if the tire was thermally or mechanically overloaded due to a loss of pressure or other prior damage, we recommend replacement of the tire in question for safety reasons.

Repairs on 'ZR" tires are not allowed, as is the use of inner tubes in tubeless tires.Tires age due to chemical and physical processes, which can impair their function. Tires that are stored unused for an extended period harden and become brittle faster than tires that are in continual use. Hairline aging cracks can occur on older tires. On tires in continual use, the kneading action activates the plasticizer in the rubber and thereby prevents hardening and cracking.

Therefore, attention should be paid not only to the tread depth but also to the age of the tire. Tires should not be older than 6 years. The age of the tire can be determined via the DOT code on the sidewall, which indicates the production date of the tire: e.g. DOT 2201= 22nd week of 2001.

Tires/complete wheels must be stored in a cool, dry and dark room with adequate ventilation. They must never come into contact with fuel, oil, grease or chemicals.

[JP66]

Thanks Loren!

[johnnys]

Have a look or do a seach on "tyres for 996 c4" dated 29th Jan.

You will se I run different tyres front and rear and no-one including Loren could give me a reason why not to. Loren said quote"guess it was a legal requirement'

If you read that post you will see I run different brands front and rear and have done for 4 years. Im sure you will be ok with what you are suggesting.