Suzuki Xl7 Supersite

Question: Do i need to replace all 4 tires at once on my 2003 suzuki xl7?

(Posted by: Im2hard2please on 2007-10-25 12:24:58)

I have a 2003 Suzuki XL7 V6. It has 4WD and I was told that I must always have 4 new tires installed on this vehicle. I found this out after having 2 new tires installed and hearing a strange noise in the drive train/ transmission when I put it in 4WD. The "dealer " said I should never only install 2 new tires because it will cause damage in the differential. Has anyone else heard such a thing? This vehicle has automatic transmission. The truth was found...the tire place put the wrong size tires on the Suzuki....go figure......And, prior to learning this, I called Suzuki of America and they said No, it is not required; but they recommend that you replace all 4 tires at the same time.....but it's not necessary...and should not cause a problem as I described.

Posted by: soba_03 on 2007-10-25, 12:33:52

Sounds to me like the Guy is trying to sell you tires. I don't see any reason to change all four tires at one time unless it's for normal wear. As long as you change them with same size installed should be no problem. Also change axels in sets, a set of fronts and a set of rears. IE new tires on both front positions or new tires on both rear positions. DON "T CHANGE a front and rear with out also changing the other front and rear. this will cause problems. Make sure that the tires you have purchased are the proper size front to back and side to side.. If you have a new tire and an old tire on the same axel you may get some noise cause by the two different tire sizes. try and keep new and used tires on the same axel... Regards!!

Posted by: The Dallas Convicts on 2007-10-25, 12:30:54

Its best to change all 4 tires....you don't have to but..it is best to!

Posted by: Steven D on 2007-10-25, 12:36:56

Replacing all 4 tires is a good idea, however one of the main things you must look at is how often it's in 4wd? A tire rotation will help you get more mileage from them. Have you been doing much off roading? This would knock out the front end alignment and will cause uneven tire wear as well.

Posted by: pbleek on 2007-10-25, 12:59:36

When you put your vehicle in four wheel drive all wheels must be the same diameter so they rotate at the same speed otherwise you will be binding the drive line. This is why on a 4WD/ AWD vehicle you should always install 4 new tires. And yes the dealer is correct you will fry the differential. Why do you trust the guy to sell you an expensive vehicle but question him when it comes to relatively minor expenditure relating to your safety?