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I have a 2004 Legacy Sedan, 11700 miles.

 

I recently acquired a nail in one tire. Haven't determined if the tire is repairable but in case it is not I want to learn what the tire replacement options I have.

 

I understand uneven relative thread wear between tires can be detrimental to the drive train and braking system.

 

What are the tech specs regarding replacement of tires on a 2004 Subaru Legacy sedan? Is there a thread wear differential spec that would allow replacing less than all the tires, say only 2 tires or perhaps 1 tire?

 

Tony Johnson

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This tire size issue comes up a lot here, a very popular topic.

 

SOA says that all four tires must be within 1/4" circumference (not diameter, but diameter x 3.14). That's not much tread depth. So in a perfect world where tires are free, replace all four to please the Subie gods.

 

Now, as to what I would do, I think I'd consider buying two new ones of the same type and size, putting those on the front (since that wears faster) and then taking the one good one w/ 11K miles and having it mounted on a wheel for use as a full size spare, if I just had a donut spare. If you already have a full size spare, then that option doesn't make as much sense.

 

That's my $.02, I'm sure others will disagree.

 

Steve

 

EDIT: All of the above assumes that the tire indeed can't be fixed. Generally it can be, unless it's on the sidewall as Tiny Clark noted below. I too have had a few punctures fixed with no problems.

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I have fixed many a nail hole with the plugs you can get at auto parts stores.

 

Never had a problem on my vehicles or any other I've fixed, and I drive 85-90MPH regularly.

 

It just can't be on the edge of the tire by the sidewall, too much frikkin' flex.

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I asked basically the same question about a month ago. If you are ready for more information than you can "Shake A Stick At" then go to this thread. Just use Search and type in tires & xmission damage. You'll spend about an hour reading a wealth of info about this often confusing subject....Enjoy!

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did you see the tire? if the nail is in the tread it should be fixable and you should have it repaired. have them patch it instead of plug it (though i plug my own, but technically speaking a inner patch is better). then you're done.

 

11,000 miles is sort of arbitrary. i've seen tires shot at 11,000 miles (in which case you should replace all 4) and i've seen them look brand new at 11,000 miles (in which case you could get away with just buying one tire). in general i'd say for an average driver who isn't driving aggressive i'd agree with buying two new tires and putting them on the front until they *catch up* to the rears and then rotate as normal. i'd even go so far as saying you could probably replace just one tire with only 11,000 miles depending how your tires have worn.

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What are the tech specs regarding replacement of tires on a 2004 Subaru Legacy sedan? Is there a thread wear differential spec that would allow replacing less than all the tires, say only 2 tires or perhaps 1 tire?

Tony Johnson

 

I was told 3/32's by the dealer when they found a differential of 6/32's on my tires (Front to Rear).

 

The tire dealer TOLD me that they were 3/32's difference, they lied and refused to back it up.

 

Needless to say, I had to buy 4 new ones somewhere else...

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