Tires: replacing tires, tire company, types of vehicles

Question
I am getting conflicting information from 2 supposed experts. I am buying two new tires to replace both tires right side front and back. Dealership says put new tires on front. Tire company says put new tires on rear. Both say to align front tires. Supposedly because the tires being replaced are on same side of car it makes a difference where you put the new tires which should go where? Car is at dealship now. I would appreciate your quickest response.  Thanks Liz

Answer
Elizabeth,

If your vehicle is a AWD or a 4X4, then your need 4 new tires.  These types of vehicles require this in order to prevent damage to the drivetrain.  There are some exceptions to this and perhaps your vehicle is one of them, but your vehicle dealer would know for sure - plus any restrictions should be listed in your owners manual.

But if you have a 4X2, then the new tires need to go on the rear.  Here's a video that explains why:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gSz7cm6MwH0