[QUOTE=diehard888;210606]If the tread wear is close to the same and their is no alignment concerns then you do not need to replace tires in pairs.
The formula to calculate rotational speeds differences from 3/32 and smaller comparing to tires or a full group of 4 could realistically never effect any daily driven mass-produced vehicle differentials in any negative way. Even a locker or posi differential. A wear pattern that severally uneven comparing 2 or more tires due to incorrect balancing, incorrect alignment, worn or damage suspension or chassis or steering components will effect the drivers steering control and also increasing braking distance and make for more challenging handling characteristics. That would be the need to change tires in pairs or complete sets.

There are many more examples of when the need to change tires in pairs or complete sets but those are IMHO the first reason to consider.


As for plugging a tire... there are several basic factors to consider. The wear of the current tire, the exact location and angle of the nail that punctured it. the type of belt construction of the tire. And the biggest one PEACE OF MIND.

For me personally the tire is cheap and i would replace it considering all the negative aspects that could arise from repairs a puncture.

 

Mazda HQ say's for a AWD, you can't just replace 1 tyre, you must replace all 4. Otherwise drivetrain damage can occur.

 

Thats wild!!!!! I wonder what they based that from? Makes no logical sense.
So I guess you can't use a spare tire in case of flat or you must carry 4 spare tires with you?

 

Why not just take it to Discount Tire or other reputable tire shop or a couple of tire shops and let the experts take a look at it ? Worst case you will need a set of tires ,and you may find out without risking your life or screwing up your CX5's drive system . Let someone who knows what they are doing /an expert look at it in person/ hands on. You have an awful lot of time invested in this post already ,go get it looked at by a pro.

 

Don't need to re-read it to know what I said....

 

If you read back, he has already resolved to buy 2 tires.
most of the other responses are just us all talking about the subject. That is a couple of us "EXPERTS and or "PROS" LOL

Maybe this is a good place to post picture of my old shop with the hundreds of tires and wheel a 3 wheel dedicated for installation only?

 

[QUOTE=diehard888;210589]Well, if you do, be sure to save the other two (and the remaining third from the rear axle) for the next time you ruin one tire, you can than (assuming you buy the same tires) have a choice of a replacement the history of which you will know.