How to Compare 4WD Tires

Four-wheel drive vehicles need specialized tires for different applications.

Four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles employ all four wheels for individual movement over a terrain. Specific tires built for the particular road conditions are available to enhance the vehicle's motion and safety during use.

Types

There are three basic types of 4WD tires: all terrain, mud terrain and highway terrain. Highway terrain tires closely resemble passenger car tires in terms of their determined use on city streets. An all terrain tire can take pavement, as well as dirt off-roading. Mud terrain tires are geared specifically for mud applications for ease of movement.

Considerations

Deciding on different tires requires designating what the vehicle is going to be used for on an overall basis. From tough, mud off-roading to easy pavement driving, pick the tire best suited for the application. Each tire on the vehicle must be the same type and have the same amount of tread and tread type to function safely and proficiently.

Significance

If a tire is damaged beyond repair, replacement of just one tire is not recommended. Four-wheel drive tires must be replaced in pairs, either two or four tires at a time, to avoid possible drive-train damage.

References

• Cars: Getting the Right Tire
• Tire Review: Drivetrain Headaches: Do 2WD, 4WD and AWD Vehicles Need Different Tire Solutions?