QuestionI have read through information on this site and others you have recommended and am still sort of confused. One of my rear tires needs to be replaced. Do I need to get 2? I know it is generally recommended.
Also, a friend has some tires she is no longer using, assuming that the wear is ok, can I use them (they would be free!)? Also, the size is somewhat differed and I don't know if they are compatible. The factory size for my 96 Ford Taurus is P205/65/R15. The free tires are P195/65/R15.
Thanks in advance for your help!!
AnswerKit,
First, the best situation is 4 identical tires - identical meaning same size, make, model, and state of wear.
For 4X4's and AWD's, this is a must as failure to do so may result in drivetrain damage - very expensive.
But for FWD and RWD, these rules can be relaxed a bit. But tires should at least be identical as a pair on an axle.
It's still best to have all 4 the same, and the further away from "identical" the more likely your vehicle is to have emergency handling issues - just when you don't want any issues.
Size is a major change - and the one you've proposed has other issues. It is smaller in load carrying capacity, and that increases the risk of a load related tire failure, which sometimes has tragic results.
