QuestionHello there. My wife needs two front tires for her 03 Disco. I was told that I would have to change all 4 tires, or I would damage something in the suspension. Why should I change the two rear tires if they seem to be in good shape.
AnswerHi Airey,
there should be no trouble in purchasing two tires for the front so long as they match the type of tire you own. If you have Perelli's - purchase Perelli's, Michelin - Michelin. Tire treads are a bit different and the compounds and manufacturing methods may influence the vehicle drives. An experienced tire shop can either find you matching tires OR suggest tires of similar construction and tread.
IF your rear tires are in good shape and not prematurely worn, it would be a shame to toss them off. Hopefully, the new tires can be matched to the ones you want to keep on the Disco.
Sometimes purchasing four tires can save you money - "purchase 3 get 1 free" - that sort of deal. If you need an alignment*, you could work out a better deal too. I would THEN suggest you buy all four!
I have never heard of any trouble in your kind of purchase of tires. Some people confuse tire purchases with tire rotation. Its possible that some 'slippery' salespeople will use this as a ploy and insist on the purchase of a complete set of tires.
Tire rotation, especially for radial tires, requires that tires remain on the same side of the vehicle and are 'rotated' "rear to front", "front to rear".
With new tires, this 'wear' should not have an influence as they have never been used. So long as they match the ones currently on the vehicle. They will eventually 'wear' into a usage pattern that is suited to your vehicle's current condition.
*Lastly, if you have worn tires ONLY in the front of your Disco, make sure its not because of the need of wheel alignment or a hidden problem. Premature wear will not go away with the purchase of new tires. You may see the same problem develop with the new tires too.
If you have to buy new tires just in the front, consider having an alignment performed. This will reveal if there are any hidden troubles - like balljoint failure - and can help you in the long run. You can have your alignment done at most garages that sell tires and also those who service 4x4 vehicles. A local shop will charge you less than at a dealer.
ON rare occasions, some dealers have tire specials - check to make sure, otherwise, shop around. If possible, work out a deal where you buy tires and ask them to give you a special rate for the alignment.
Best of luck,
JohnMc
