What can be a consequence of using mismatched tires?

Using mismatched tires can significantly impact a vehicle's braking performance. When tires are different in size, tread pattern, or wear, they can produce uneven traction. This discrepancy means that when braking, the vehicle may not respond uniformly, complicating the driver's ability to control stopping distances and making it challenging to maintain stability. The variation in grip between mismatched tires can lead to the vehicle pulling to one side during braking, increasing the risk of losing control, particularly in emergency situations.

The other options reference potential outcomes that are generally not associated with mismatched tires. Uniform handling characteristics would require all tires to perform similarly, which is not the case with mismatched tires. Louder road noise can occur due to various factors, but it is not a direct or primary consequence of mismatching. Improved fuel economy is also less likely to result from mismatched tires, as they can actually lead to increased rolling resistance and reduced efficiency. Thus, the most accurate consequence of using mismatched tires is indeed reduced braking performance.