Can I mix tyre tread patterns?

Mixing tyre tread patterns

Legal requirements

In the UK, it is a legal requirement for both tyres on the same axle to have the same tread pattern. This means that your two front tyres must be the same, and your two rear tyres must be the same. It is illegal to mix different patterns on the same axle, and it can compromise handling safety.

Different patterns front to rear

It is legal to have different tread patterns on the front and rear axles. However, for the most consistent and predictable handling, having identical tyres on all four wheels is always the best setup.

What else must match on the same axle?

• Tyre size
• Construction type (you cannot mix radial and cross-ply)
• Tread pattern
• Same brand, model and, ideally, level of wear