I have two front directional toyo tires (on fat fives) that I will be replacing tomorrow. Is it important that I replace the tires with exact tread? I hear that I can screw up my AWD if I don't. Anyone know for sure that I should match all tread on all 4 tires?

2001 225c

Thanks

 

The guy i bought my car from had different tread, and i have gone 150 on it and no problems and then my friend who also has awd had different tread and at 60 the abs light came on and he started burning the gears on the rear dif. But he has a speed six, IMO i would stay the same or do all 4

 

I don't think the tread pattern matters as much as the size. It is important that the diameter of the tire remain the same. Different manufacturers could have different overall sizes even though they say the same.

That being said, I have different tires front and rear and have not had a problem yet.

 

I work at a Subaru Dealer (well VW, Subaru, Hyundai anyways...) and our biggest problem with AWD and tires is the tread depth and outer circumference of the tires. Different tires or the same model tires with differing speed ratings will change the circumference. Different tread is OK, so long as the circumference is the same. That said, they will wear different with different tread.

Just remember how Haldex works, 1/8th Tire rotation for AWD to kick in so keep the tire circumference within 2-3 inches of each other.

 

I got stuck, and had to go with what was avail, so I got two hankook fronts, with the same dimensions 225x45x17. Does this mean the circumference is the same as the rear? If not, whats the best way to find out?

Thanks

 

I have gone 5,000 miles with different sets in the front and rear but same size and had no problems.

 

Easiest way to be certain is take a tape measure and run it around the outside of the tires. They should all check within one-two inches of each other...