OEM tires vs Michelin and Bridgestone

HybridforCollege · 05-28-2011, 04:13 PM

My tires are pretty worn out at 24k miles and the dealer says I will probably have to change them the next time i go in because the front, (now rear after rotation) is pretty much treadless.

So I have a coupon right now that says buy 3 OEM tires get 1 free for a total of about $360 after install, but I have a coupon for Costco for $70 off a set of 4 tires. Which is more worth it? I'd hate to get another set of the OEM tires and have them only last 30k miles again.

Or should I wait for another bridgestone tire coupon to come out at 70$ off a set of 4 also. For those of you who purchased tires from costco, do they have the size for the insight? And how are they?
How much more do fuel efficient tires cost than regular?

Thanks

HybridforCollege · 05-31-2011, 07:48 PM

bumppp
8P
-10 characters

**waterdog** · 05-31-2011, 10:28 PM

If you do a search, you will find lots of tire discussions on this forum. Also, I don't think anyone can provide an informed opinion for choosing between brands - you really need to focus on individual tire models in light of your driving style and preferences. No single tire is best for everyone everywhere. Search on this form and check out the ratings on tirerack.com, 1010tires.com, and in Consumer Reports. By then you will have more information than you can digest, but will at least be able to make an informed choice.

Roger B. · 06-01-2011, 07:48 PM

check out Continental ContiProContact. at tirerack.com or tirebuyer.com looks like a nice low rolling resistance option for the insight.

Terry55 · 06-02-2011, 08:25 AM

Another option might be a brand new offering from Bridgestone available in mid June. Bridgestone ecopia ep422. It comes in a 175/65R15.

I came back to add that this is a summer tire, so for you folks who experience snow, it's not for you.

Cobb · 06-02-2011, 10:27 AM

All tires handle differently and you should focus on the tire for your driving needs vs which is cheapest. I am sure you can find used tires in your area if money is the main concern. All tire places will try to up sell you stuff, so see if they charge for installation, mounting and balancing or if its free.

I love my yoks myself.

aragorn0404 · 06-16-2011, 12:59 PM

Hopefully I'll have a long time till I need to replace tires, but when I do I'll likely get a set of Michelin LRR 185/65R 15 tires in whatever series they have at the time. Presently I think their offerings are Energy Saver A/S or Primacy MXV4 for LRR tires.

birdman · 06-16-2011, 06:02 PM

Tire Rack did a test drive comparison on "green" tires using a Toyota Prius. Based on the test I would select the Michelin Energy Saver A/S.

Here is the link: When Round and Black Becomes Lean and Green

birdman · 06-16-2011, 06:06 PM

OK, that link did not work. Try typing "When Round and Black Becomes Lean and Green" in Tire Racks website.

WFalicoff · 06-16-2011, 08:43 PM

I would not replace the OEM tires even if it I got a bargain price on them. We prefer the Nokian WRG2 185/60 R15 (the Dunlops are 175/65 R15). They rated very highly in the Consumer Reports (low rolling resistance, wet and dry handling, snow). The big advantage is that they are also rated a snow tire (snowflake on side wall) but perform as ultra high performance tire in all conditions. And the mpg is the same as with the OEM tires. Nokian (Finland) also makes 175/65R R15 versions of the WRG2, which is the same size as the OEM tires. However, I prefer the slightly wider tire (no speedometer problem with either). I see you are based in Southern Ca so maybe driving in snow has no interest for you. We have put nearly 30K on the Nokians and they are still in fine condition. Sure they cost a bit more but worth every penny.