AboutBarry Smith Expertise I have over 30 years experience in the design, manufacturing, and
testing of tires. I have served as the technical advisor to the "800"
number. I have authored or co-authored many publications - usually
without credit. I can answer almost any technical question, but
please don`t ask me to compare brands. I probably have prejudices because of
my work experience.
Experience Member SAE (Society of Automotive
Engineers)
Member Tire Society (Tire Technical Organization)
SCCA Regional Competiton License holder
Authored many training manuals on tires, their care and use.
Expert: Barry Smith Date: 7/7/2008 Subject: Replacing Murano front tires with a different brand.
Question QUESTION: Is it acceptable to replace my AWD Murano's front tires with a different brand if I match the size (R235/65R18)? My manual says to use the same size and brand on all four wheels. It states "Failure to do so may result in circumference difference between tires on the front and rear axles which....may cause damage to the transmission, transfer case, and differential gears." I thought that as long as I matched the size that I could use whatever brand I desired.
ANSWER: Kerry,
There are slight and not so slight differences in the diameter of tires - even within the same brand. Obviously, Mitsubishi feels that their transfer case is likely to be damaged by differences beyond just the size - hence the warning.
BTW, there have been many drivetrain failures of AWD and 4 X 4's, so the common warning nowadays is the AWD's and 4 X 4's have to have 4 identical tires - including state of wear - to prevent drivetrain issues.
So the risk is that the transfer case would fail - and since they warned you about possible damage, it would be best to follow their advice.
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Thanks for the reply.
So you would recommend that I replace my front tires with the same brand? Or would you recommend replacing all four tires? According to my measurements I have 78% tread left on the rear and 55% left on the front. By my calculations the difference in tread depth (front compared to rear)would be slightly less once I replace my front tires (with the same brand) compared to what I have now (which is working just fine, in other words no problems or warning lights related to tires with different diameters).
Answer Kerry,
It is not quite clear from the manual what Mitsubishi thinks - and they are the folks in the best position to advise - but my gut says that you'll have to replace all 4 to be sure that the tires don't cause drivetrain damage. But just to be sure, you should contact Mitsubishi.
