[WWI] Tire replacement
05-12-15 | 07:08 PM
#1
Thread Starter
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 1
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From: PA
Tire replacement
I recently experienced a blowout on one of my tires. The tires are OEM Michelin on an RX350 AWD. The tires had 25,000 miles with 6/32 tread remaining. Do I have to replace all four tires or can I replace just one with an exact match to the original but with a full 10/32 tread?
05-13-15 | 04:06 PM
#2
Lexus Customer Service
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 81
Likes: 0
From: CA
In vehicles with all-wheel-drive systems, the differential and the computer work together to send the right amount of torque to each wheel to minimize slippage and maximize control. If one of the tires is a different size than the others -- because three tires are worn and one is brand new -- the computer will take an incorrect reading and the differential will work too hard. Drive this way long enough and you'll burn out the drivetrain. With that said we recommend you replace all 4 tires to avoid adverse affects. You can consult with the technicians at your local Lexus dealer for additional information.
05-14-15 | 04:51 AM
#3
Pole Position
Joined: Mar 2015
Posts: 325
Likes: 10
From: Florida - Tampa Bay
In vehicles with all-wheel-drive systems, the differential and the computer work together to send the right amount of torque to each wheel to minimize slippage and maximize control. If one of the tires is a different size than the others -- because three tires are worn and one is brand new -- the computer will take an incorrect reading and the differential will work too hard. Drive this way long enough and you'll burn out the drivetrain. With that said we recommend you replace all 4 tires to avoid adverse affects. You can consult with the technicians at your local Lexus dealer for additional information.
Be aware that some Lexus dealers apparently have another opinion on the subject:
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...ml#post6321386
Frankly, I'm confused. It seems to me that tires are always rotating at different speeds (for example, every time you enter a curve or turn a corner). Rarely does a vehicle go exactly in a straight line on a perfectly level road.
Last edited by LeapFrog; 05-14-15 at 11:50 AM.
08-17-15 | 05:18 PM
#5
Pole Position
Joined: Aug 2015
Posts: 203
Likes: 1
From: Florida
You can always order a single tire from Tire Rack and ask them to shave the tire to the depth you ned to match the other tires. You do waste milage on the new tire but it would then be the same size as the other tires.
08-21-15 | 08:21 AM
#6
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Joined: Mar 2015
Posts: 325
Likes: 10
From: Florida - Tampa Bay
What does the Owners Manual say?
I continue to be amazed by the question about replacing a single tire. For the 2014 RX 350, here's what the Owners Manual says:
Replacing tires
Make sure that all tires are of the same size, brand, tread pattern and total load capacity. In addition, make sure that the tires are inflated to the recommended tire inflation pressure level.
NOTE THAT THE MANUAL DOES NOT MENTION TREAD DEPTH OR WEAR LEVEL.
In fact, the manual goes on to say that it is OK to put snow chains on the front wheels. Now, wouldn't you think that chains would make a bigger difference in tire diameter than a bit of tread wear?
Replacing tires
Make sure that all tires are of the same size, brand, tread pattern and total load capacity. In addition, make sure that the tires are inflated to the recommended tire inflation pressure level.
NOTE THAT THE MANUAL DOES NOT MENTION TREAD DEPTH OR WEAR LEVEL.
In fact, the manual goes on to say that it is OK to put snow chains on the front wheels. Now, wouldn't you think that chains would make a bigger difference in tire diameter than a bit of tread wear?
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