Is it OK to ride with the same size tire (Goodyear Wrangler P245/75R17) with slightly different thread patterns? I want to use my spare as one of the 4 new tires, but the tire dealer states I can’t mix the threads, but it’s the same mfgr, model, and size. The current spare tire model is discontinued. In my opinion, this is not an issue. And I love the tire dealer; used them for 40 yr!
Tires: Mixed Thread Patterns
- Thread starter pkline1
- Start date
I would say it depends on HOW different. I wouldn't mix 3 aggressive off-road tires with a street tire. The greater the difference, the more likely you are to notice some squirrelly handling.
It's just bad practice to mix treads. At a minimum, in small ways you will have different amount of grip from that corner. Also, the size is going to be slightly different removing the option of 4 wheel drive or you risk breaking something.
Again, it depends on how different the treads are. As for grip, do you have any idea how many performance cars have different tread patterns on the front and rear? Lots. Not OEM, but for track days. And I guarantee none of us push our Jeeps through corners with the aggression most of us show on track days.
As for size, anything up to 3% is fine. The OP said the tires are the same make, model, and size, but with an updated tread pattern.
I really really doubt that Goodyear made a significant difference in size when they changed the tread, but it's pretty easy to measure.
I'm not saying it's the best option in the world. But it's also not going to kill you in normal day to day driving.
If the OP is trying to replace 3 and use the spare as #4, I suspect there might be budgetary issues. It happens. There are certainly worse things they could do.