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We need a new front tyre, as the sidewall is damaged to the carcass 🙁
The tyres have done 10000 miles - probably about half their minimum lifespan.
Should we replace the pair (as any shop is likely to recommend) or can you get away with just replacing the damaged one?
How many mm make a difference to things like traction control and abs?
Do you have a spare and could do a bit of tyre swapping to give you two "new" tyres and keep the 50% one as the spare?
How worn is the other one on the same axle? What are the rears like? Do they discount if you buy two? I prefer to change pairs at the same time but wouldn't bother if the other side was nearly new. Remember to put the better tyres at the back.
Depending as well how sensitive the abs/traction system is too.
To big a stagger could bring the light on.
As above I'd check the spare and match pair it if it's the same
Can you see plies/cord structure. Fold the edges of the cut back to look if necessary? If yes, new tyre
If you can't see them, can you feel them through the remaining rubber with a blunt edge (a bit like rubbing the side of a hair comb)? If yes, is the cut more than 25mm or 10% marked tyre width (whichever is bigger)? If yes, new tyre
If not, it's legal and will pass an MoT.
Lumps and bulges may indicate a failing structure and are also illegal/an MoT fail
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/mot-inspection-manual-for-private-passenger-and-light-commercial-vehicles/5-axles-wheels-tyres-and-suspension#section-5-2-3
Can you see plies/cord structure.
yes, if you fold the cut back.
Do you have a spare
Sadly it’s a space saver
Going to check the wear on the other side to see what the difference is, but if it’s more than a few man I think new pair minimum
I would probably only match within 1mm wear. Particularly on the same axle. Maybe have a look at the remaining 3 tyres. If there is one that is close to new spec put it on the back with the new one and the others in the front. One issue to be aware of I'd tyres are often directional. You can't swap led to right anymore. Front to back is ok.
Edit: unless you take them off the rims of course.
yes, if you fold the cut back
That's a pain. Put the spare on if you need to drive anywhere, 3pp and £2500 max ☹ </egg-sucking>
Just replace the damaged one school of thought here. Unless it’s some supercar it won’t be noticeable, it not as if your tyres all wear at the same rate and are always equal in tread depth.
When I was driving cars fast on the road we’d only change the damaged ones and not pairs