I have an '01 1.8t Quattro. Had a front tire go out on me recently. I wanted to replace only the front two tires b/c all four are relatively new $$$. Independent tire dealer tells me he will only replace all 4 at a time b/c all-wheel drive (liability for transmission failure???). Dealer told me to replace front two and it will be ok regarding quattro/trans. Should I eat the cost of new tires, or is it ok to replace fronts only? Anyone w/ experience please comment. Thanks.

 

if u replace the front only the ride wont be as nice as befor though i dont think it would trash the tranny though

 

You can replace there front two tires only, try and make sure you have the
same tread pattern on the tire.
I would put the new ones on the rear and Balance the rear and put them on the front
If It was a front wheel drive you would have to replace all due to oversteer
from the front having more traction then the rear

 

Thanks for the fast reply. I figured that the front wheels would be best to have the new rubber since they are the steering wheels. And don't the fronts typically wear faster on all cars (front/rear/all-wheel drive)...?

 

Yeah, not so worried about the ride quality, just wanted to debunk the transmission failure theory. I had another tire guy tell me that Subaru voids their warrantly if you don't replace all four at a time.

 

Get the same 2 tires as the other axle make, model and size. You'll be OK.