Tread depth variance between tires - what's acceptable?

[PNW Avant]

I'm going to look at a set of used PS2s today that I spotted on craigslist in 235/35/19. Tread depth looks good in the photos but the seller says two are worn slightly more than the other two. What's the maximum variance you guys would find acceptable for a quattro? 2/32nds? 3/32nds? I am going to pick up a tread depth gauge at the auto parts store on my way to see them.

Also, what's the oldest you guys would buy from manufacture date? 5 years? 6 years? I can see myself using them for a maximum of 2 years before I treat myself to fresh rubber. I just don't have the extra $800 to wrap my OEM Rs4s at the moment.

[Tifosi]

Here in Seattle/PNW, I would say you want to at least start with 4/32nd at minimal. At 2/32, you are driving with racing slicks in the rain. As for age, I would say no more than 5 years of age if you planned on at least 2 years of usage.

[PNW Avant]

Here in Seattle/PNW, I would say you want to at least start with 4/32nd at minimal. At 2/32, you are driving with racing slicks in the rain. As for age, I would say no more than 5 years of age if you planned on at least 2 years of usage.

Thanks Tifosi

I was actually referring to the variance in tread depth between the two pairs of tires, as the seller stated they have worn a little differently. I.e, one pair might be 9/32s while the other pair might be 7/32. what variance would be acceptable?

[Tifosi]

This is on Tire Rack's website:

Replacing Pairs of Tires or Individual Tires

There are several suggestions that have been offered to drivers who are replacing pairs or individual tires on their four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles. Some vehicle manufacturers recommend that all tires maintain the same rolling radius and circumference, while others suggest that all tire circumferences remain within 1/4- to 1/2-inch of each other. Other vehicle manufacturers recommend that all four tires remain within 2/32-, 3/32- or 4/32-inch of each other, or within 30% of each other in relative remaining tread depth.

Regardless of the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations, the least stressful application is when all four tires are the same tire brand, tread design and equivalent tread depth.

Before buying pairs or individual tires for all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive vehicles, drivers should read their vehicle's owners manual or contact the dealer's service department for confirmation of their specific vehicle's requirements.

[Chicopee S7]

Hello All,

I own a 2015 S7. I have a single LF tire with a pothole bubble. These tires have less than 10,000 miles on them so I am resistant to replace more than the minimum number of tires.

I checked the Audi manual and it only states they recommend you replace the tires in pairs. So I am going to replace the fronts only. It does also state, although its obvious to me, that all 4 tires should be identical for model and tread etc...

I need to search the forums for more information, but I am concerned that maybe the tires I currently have are prone to pothole damage. My current tires are Nokian brand, WR-g2 model, size 255-35-20