Summary:
Many drivers mistakenly believe that a new pair of tires should be placed on the front axle when replacing worn-out front tires. However, tire experts strongly advise against this practice. They suggest instead that new tires should be installed on the back axle. The older tires are moved to the front. Michelin UK’s technical manager, Brian Porteous, highlighted in an interview with Auto Express that up to half of British drivers might not know this guideline. Some tire shops may not follow it.
The reasoning behind this recommendation is based on vehicle stability. Having the best pair of tires on the rear reduces the risk of oversteer. This is a dangerous situation where the rear of the vehicle slides out, especially on wet roads. Porteous explains that we should prioritize stability over braking and traction. Because part-worn tires can still provide adequate performance on the front.
Porteous emphasizes that any slip at the front is easier for drivers to manage, making it crucial to maintain grip at the rear. He compares this to experiences in driving simulation games, where players can experiment with different tire combinations and observe how handling changes. A combination of hard and soft tires can lead to noticeable differences in handling dynamics.
Importantly, this “new rubber on the rear” rule applies to all vehicle types, whether they are front-wheel drive (FWD), rear-wheel drive (RWD), or all-wheel drive (4WD). While the specific dynamics may vary slightly between different vehicles, the essential advice remains the same: keeping the best tires at the rear minimizes the potential for oversteer and enhances overall safety.
In conclusion, prioritizing rear tire quality is vital for stability and control while driving. Thus making it a crucial practice for all drivers to adopt.
Carscoops
Read the Full Article
