Tire Wear and Failure Analysis
Tire problems are a serious issue. Aside from the obvious tread separation cases that led to the massive Ford/Firestone tire recall on Ford Explorers, there are many other areas that cause tires to fail, or just as easily cause an accident. One of the least noticed tire problems relates to a tire retailer installing two new tires on a vehicle. For many years it was believed that the safest position for the new tires would be on the front because those were the tires that allowed you to steer the vehicle. WRONG!! Any time that less than a full set of new tires is installed the newest and best tires should be placed on the rear for safest handling. This has been known to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration since at least 1970. Michelin has been preaching this gospel for many years. If you are interested in this subject call or e-mail Mr. Hille and he will provide you with his History of Tire Placement.