What is the consequence of replacing a single tire on a vehicle?

Replacing a single tire on a vehicle can indeed lead to negative consequences for the suspension, transmission, and drivetrain systems. When tires are replaced individually instead of in pairs or all at once, there can be discrepancies in tire diameter, tread depth, and overall performance characteristics. This discrepancy can result in uneven wear and stress on the vehicle’s drivetrain components, especially in all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) systems that rely on all tires being similar in size and tread pattern.

For instance, a new tire combined with older tires can cause the vehicle's computer to misinterpret the rotational speed of the wheels, leading to slippage or more significant wear on universal joints and differentials. Additionally, the handling can be affected due to different grip levels, particularly when taking turns or in inclement weather conditions. This is why it is often recommended to replace tires in sets to maintain balanced performance and longevity of the vehicle's mechanical systems.