Why AWD Vehicles Require Matching Tire Sizes: Protecting Your Driveline
All-wheel drive (AWD) systems offer outstanding traction, stability, and performance, making them a popular choice for drivers in Edmonton and across Alberta. However, with the advantages of AWD comes the critical need for proper tire maintenance, specifically, ensuring that all four tires maintain an equal rolling diameter.
At Caliber Automotive Ltd., we often see cases where customers are surprised to learn that replacing just one or two tires on an AWD vehicle can lead to serious (and expensive) driveline damage. Let’s dive into why matching tire size matters so much for your AWD system.
Understanding Rolling Diameter
Rolling diameter refers to the total distance a tire travels in one complete revolution. Even slight differences in tire circumference, caused by uneven wear, different brands, the same brand but different models, or mixing new and used tires, can result in tires rotating at slightly different speeds.
The vehicle’s transfer case, center differential, and other driveline components in an AWD system are designed to send power evenly to all four wheels. If one or two wheels are spinning faster or slower due to a difference in rolling diameter, the system constantly compensates for what it “thinks” is wheel slippage. Over time, this can cause overheating, excessive wear, or even catastrophic failure in sensitive components, such as the differential or transfer case.
Why You Can’t Just Replace One or Two Tires
Unlike front-wheel or rear-wheel drive vehicles, where minor tire differences might not have immediate, severe consequences, AWD systems are much less forgiving. Replacing only one or two tires can:
- Stress the drivetrain by forcing a continuous differential engagement.
- Lead to uneven torque distribution and internal binding.
- Trigger warning lights or fault codes.
- Ultimately, it causes costly repairs or premature failure of the drivetrain.
Best Practices for Tire Replacement on AWD Vehicles
- Replace All Four Tires Together: This ensures uniform tread depth, consistency in brand, and model.
- Match Tire Models Exactly: Even two tires from the same manufacturer but different models can have different rolling diameters.
- Regular Tire Rotations: Rotating your tires helps maintain even tire wear and prolongs the life of all four tires.
- Consult a Professional: If you’ve experienced a tire blowout or significant damage, our technicians at Caliber Automotive can measure your existing tires to determine if a partial replacement is a viable option. Sometimes, shaving a new tire to match the worn ones can be an option, but this should only be done by a qualified professional.
Protect Your Investment
AWD vehicles are engineered for precision and performance. Protecting your driveline by maintaining equal tire rolling diameter is a simple but essential way to avoid unnecessary repairs and keep your vehicle running smoothly.
We’re committed to helping you take care of your vehicle, just the way it was designed to be cared for. If you’re unsure whether you need one tire, two tires, or a complete set, call us or book an appointment online. Our experienced team will ensure your vehicle gets the expert attention it deserves.