Mix/Match Tires or replace all 4?

[paladin54]

Hi,

I recently bought a 2002 Explorer XLT AWD.

I noticed the rear tires have low tread, but the fronts are in great shape.

Do I have to replace all 4 tires at the same time? Can I mix and match tires/thread patterns?

Currently it has Comanche Radial H/T tires on it.

If I can't mix/match, where can I buy these same tires so I only have to replace 2 instead of 4?

 

[CrazyAlaskan]

I have always been told and heard that if you have AWD to replace all 4 at one time because it can affect the transaxle i believe.

 

[eXcali]

Nah, with AWD you can change front/back seperate. It's 4x4 that you have to change all 4. Reason being the viscous liquid transfer case of an AWD controls the power ratio of front to rear, where as a 4x4 system locks it in at a set ratio and different tire sizes will cause problems.

So AWD = yes you can change front and back seperate, 4x4 must replace all 4 at once.